Spheno-Orbital Meningiomas: When the Endoscopic Approach Is Better

Spheno-orbital meningiomas were historically treated by traditional craniotomies. However, in the past few years new endoscopic treatments have been successfully performed. In this study, we analyzed different indications for craniotomy and endoscopy, and the advantages and disadvantages of these procedures.Thirty patients with spheno-orbital meningiomas were operated on over 2 years, between 2013 and 2014. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed in all patients preoperatively. Navigated surgical removal and histological confirmation, as well as follow-up examinations, including CT scan at 24 h and MRI at 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, were performed. Twenty-three patients were treated by traditional fronto-temporal, fronto-temporo-orbital, and supraorbital craniotomies; in six cases the tumor was removed via endoscopic endonasal and lateral transorbital resection. Only one case required a combined supraorbital and endoscopic endonasal approach.We analyzed the results of the different surgical techniques, in particular those of the endoscopic approaches.In selected cases, the endoscopic approach to spheno-orbital meningiomas, compared with traditional approaches, may be more effective in removing tumors completely. The surgical technique is easy and the rate of complications is low.