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Published on: July 5, 2011
Microsurgical Resection of a Cavernous Malformation of the Trochlear Nerve: A Case Report
Katharina Krause1, Peter Vajkoczy1, Anton Früh1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz, Berlin, Germany.
Background:
Cavernous malformations (CMs) involving cranial nerves are exceedingly rare. To date, only six cases of trochlear nerve involvement have been published in the literature. We present the case of a microsurgical resection of a CM affecting the trochlear nerve.
Methods:
We report the clinical case of a 32-year-old patient who developed diplopia due to a CM affecting the trochlear nerve. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a contrast lesion measuring 9 × 5 mm affecting the trochlear nerve. Microsurgical resection of the lesion via a subtemporal approach under continuous neuromonitoring was performed.
Results:
The patient underwent successful microsurgical resection. Postoperatively, the patient's diplopia remained unchanged. No new neurological deficits were observed.
Conclusion:
This case demonstrates the feasibility and safety of microsurgical resection of a trochlear nerve CM. Given the rarity of this entity, individual case reports contribute valuable insight into diagnosis and surgical management.
