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Large Transcalvarial Meningioma: Surgical Resection Aided by Preoperative Embolization
Ali S Haider1, Haris Rana2, Lyndon K Lee1
1Texas A&M College of Medicine.
Abstract:
Meningiomas are the most common type of primary brain tumors, accounting for about 30% of all brain tumors. Meningiomas originate from the meninges and can be associated with any part of the skull. Classification of meningiomas is based upon the World Health Organization (WHO) classification system and prognosis of meningiomas can be determined via histologic grading. Surgery is the gold standard treatment option for all types of meningiomas. Due to the high vascularity of some meningiomas, surgical resection can lead to certain complications including intraoperative blood loss and hemorrhage. Strategies for complication avoidance include preoperative embolization of the meningioma vascular supply. Preoperative embolization has been shown to assist in surgical resection of selected tumors and decrease intraoperative blood loss. We present a case of successful preoperative embolization for a large, complex, transcalvarial meningioma along with a literature review on this topic.
Insights
Preoperative embolization can reduce blood loss during surgery for meningiomas, the most common brain tumors. This case study highlights successful embolization for a complex meningioma, aiding surgical resection.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Meningiomas represent approximately 30% of primary brain tumors, arising from the meninges.
- Surgical resection is the primary treatment, but high vascularity can cause significant intraoperative blood loss.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) classification system and histologic grading guide prognosis.
Observation:
- This study presents a case of a large, complex, transcalvarial meningioma.
- Preoperative embolization of the tumor's vascular supply was performed.
- The procedure aimed to mitigate surgical complications.
Findings:
- Successful preoperative embolization was achieved for the complex meningioma.
- Embolization facilitated surgical resection and is a valuable strategy for selected meningiomas.
- This approach can decrease intraoperative blood loss.
Implications:
- Preoperative embolization is an effective strategy for managing highly vascular meningiomas.
- It can improve surgical outcomes and patient safety.
- Further literature review supports its utility in complex cases.
