Endoscope-Assisted Transcranial Surgery for Petroclival Meningiomas: A Single-Centre Experience

Xiaoyu Ji1, Siyuan Yang1, Peng Zhou1

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.

World Neurosurgery
|September 29, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Endoscope-assisted microsurgery offers a higher gross total resection rate for petroclival meningioma (PCM) compared to conventional microscopic surgery. This advanced technique also leads to shorter hospital stays and reduced tumor recurrence, making it a promising first-line treatment option.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Surgical Oncology

Background:

  • Petroclival meningiomas (PCMs) present significant surgical challenges due to their complex anatomical location.
  • Conventional microscopic approaches have limitations in achieving complete tumor resection and visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the outcomes of endoscope-assisted microsurgery versus conventional microscopic surgery for petroclival meningioma.
  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscope-assisted transcranial techniques in treating PCMs.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case-control study analyzing clinical data from January 2018 to June 2024.
  • Involved 62 patients: 18 with endoscope-assisted surgery and 44 with conventional microscopic surgery.
  • Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to control for baseline differences between the groups.

Main Results:

  • Endoscope-assisted microsurgery achieved a significantly higher gross total resection (GTR) rate (83.3% vs. 52.3%, P=0.046).
  • Patients undergoing endoscope-assisted surgery experienced shorter postoperative hospital stays (9.50 days vs. 13.00 days, P=0.023).
  • Tumor progression or recurrence was lower in the endoscope-assisted group (0% vs. 15.9%) and remained significantly better after PSM (OR 7.51, P=0.021).

Conclusions:

  • Endoscope-assisted microsurgery enhances visualization and tumor access for petroclival meningiomas.
  • This technique demonstrates superior outcomes, including higher GTR rates and reduced recurrence.
  • Endoscope-assisted microsurgery is recommended as a potential first-line treatment for PCM.

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