Transcranial approach to craniopharyngiomas; review of management and outcomes

Craniopharyngiomas are rare tumours of the central nervous system. Their successful treatment is marred by a high rate of recurrence and postoperative complications. Their occurrence is sufficiently rare to merit treatment at specialized high volume centers. We have described our experience with these tumours because we feel that published literature is rare from our region.We treated 7 patients during this period. Their complete history was taken and full neurological examination was performed. Scans included a plain head CT and an MRI scan with contrast. Follow up was done at 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 year following surgery. The outcome in all patients was classified as according to the Karnofsky outcome scale for brain tumours. Craniopharyngiomas are a rare and challenging form of tumour to treat due to its close proximity to vital structures. Treatment is usually multi-disciplinary at reducing recurrence and maintaining quality of life.