Introduction: Anterior and anterolaterally situated Foramen magnum meningiomas are a technically complex subgroup of meningiomas. The need an extensive exposure and bone work and the complex anatomy make them a difficult and challenging group of tumors. The bone work has ranged from extensive condylar resection to condylar preserving exposures. In this paper we present our experience with condylar preserving and minimal condylar resection based approaches to these tumors.
Methods: All patients who underwent surgical resection of Anterior and anterolateral situated Foramen magnum meningiomas were included in the analysis. The study period was over 10 years from 2005-2015 at our Institute a tertiary referral center in India. The records along with demographic profile, Clinico-radiological features, surgical strategies, outcomes along with mortality and morbidity were analyzed.
Results: There were a total of 21 patients with these tumors who were operated in the study period. The average age was 43 years. All patients underwent surgery. While 17 patients’ gross total or near total resection could be achieved, 4 patients underwent subtotal resection. 6 patients had fresh morbidity in form of new motor deficits or vascular injury. There was 1 death. The follow-up ranged from 6 months to 7 years.
Conclusions: Foramen magnum meningiomas are an eminently treatable group of tumors. Condylar preservation provides good visualistion while helping preserve joint stability, and avoiding instrumental stabilization.
Patient Care: Surgical nuances are being presented
Learning Objectives: Bone preserving approaches to Skull base to prevent instability