Removal of intraventricular craniopharyngiomas through the lamina terminalis

Radical, but subtotal, removal of four craniopharyngiomas, three of which were primarily within the third ventricle, has been carried out by an approach beneath the frontal lobe and through the lamina terminalis. A good result was obtained in two cases, and in two other cases the patients were left with considerable disability from hypothalamic damage. The technique, and the indications for radical surgery on these lesions are discussed.