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Pediatric neurotologic skull base surgery
C G Jackson1, D G Pappas, S Manolidis
1The Otology Group, Nashville, TN 37203, USA.
The Laryngoscope
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Pediatric skull base tumors are rare but often advanced, presenting challenges in complete resection and functional preservation compared to adults. Timely diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes in children with these rare tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Skull base surgery aims for complete tumor resection and preserved function, which may be more challenging in pediatric patients.
- Pediatric skull base tumors are rare, with limited data comparing outcomes to adult cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare outcomes of skull base tumors in pediatric patients (≤21 years) versus adults.
- To analyze the pathology, treatment, and functional outcomes in young patients with skull base tumors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 15 pediatric skull base tumor cases (1970-1995).
- Comparison of pediatric cases with a larger adult glomus tumor series.
- Analysis of tumor pathology, stage, and postoperative functional outcomes.
Main Results:
- The pediatric cohort included 8 glomus lesions and 4 schwannomas, with a high prevalence of advanced-stage disease and malignancy.
- Postoperative cranial nerve function and complication rates were generally worse in young glomus patients compared to adults.
- Outcomes in pediatric patients were consistent with the extensive nature of treating advanced skull base disease.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric skull base tumors often present with advanced disease, posing significant surgical challenges.
- Outcomes in children, particularly for glomus tumors, suggest poorer functional results and higher complication rates than in adults.
- This study highlights the critical need for earlier diagnosis of skull base tumors in the pediatric population.