Supracerebellar "Flyover" Approach to Dumbbell Falcotentorial Meningioma Encasing the Galenic Venous System.

Falcotentorial meningiomas involve the tentorial apex and straight sinus, posing challenges when encasing the galenic venous system.1 Microneurosurgery is considered the best treatment option for large falcotentorial meningiomas because it provides a definitive cure.2 In contrast, Gamma Knife surgery mainly allows the control of smaller or residual tumors after microsurgical resection.3 Approach selection between interhemispheric supratentorial versa supracerebellar transtentorial is dictated by the displacement of the Galen vein.1,4-8Video 1 describes the critical surgical steps of the supracerebellar "flyover" approach for a Bassiouni type II dumbbell falcotentorial meningiomas encasing the galenic venous system. Preoperative embolization was ruled out due to potential additional morbidity and mortality risks.9,10 A perimedian supracerebellar infratentorial transtentorial approach was performed with the patient in ¾ prone Concorde position. After early devascularization and division of the tentorium, the meningioma was internally debulked while preserving the arachnoid plane. The posterior choroidal arteries, internal cerebral veins, basal veins of Rosenthal, and vein of Galen were carefully dissected, and the tumor was completely resected. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 with no deficits. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a Simpson grade 1 resection. Pathology revealed a grade 2 meningioma. The patient remained asymptomatic with no recurrence at a 10-year follow-up. The reported case demonstrates that the most critical factor in the choice of approach to midline dumbbell falcotentorial meningiomas is the relationship of the tumor to the galenic venous system and its tributaries.

Metastasis of Intracranial Meningioma to the Osseous Spine: Systematic Literature Review and Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Osseous spinal metastases from intracranial meningiomas are rare but represent a serious disease progression. A literature review was performed on this topic to understand the clinical course of patients with this disease entity. We also present a case of spinal metastasis in a patient with a World Health Organization grade III meningioma. METHODS: The PubMed/MEDLINE database was queried on August 15, 2021, using the keywords (meningioma) AND (metastasis) AND (vertebra∗ OR spin∗). All publications reporting outcomes of patients with meningioma metastatic to the spine were included. Disease characteristics, treatment modality, and outcomes were extracted from each study. Because data availability varied widely between studies, no meta-analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total of 30 articles with 33 cases were included. Outcome data varied greatly in terms of quality and length of follow-up. Of 28 cases with reported outcomes data, 20 resulted in patient mortality ranging from a few weeks to 5 years after spinal metastasis. Mean (standard deviation) survival time was 5.8 (6.4) years following initial diagnosis, but only 1.4 (3.2) years from spinal metastasis. The longest survivor was noted to have no recurrence of disease 4 years after spinal metastasis. CONCLUSIONS: Bony spinal metastasis from intracranial meningioma is an extremely rare occurrence. Within the limits of the available literature, outcomes of patients with this disease appear to be poor. However, data reporting is inconsistent, and several articles did not report any outcome data. Further study is needed to better clarify the course and prognosis of this disease.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage in Patients with Acute Spinal Cord Injury: A Multi-Center Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: The secondary phase of spinal cord injury (SCI) is characterized by ischemic injury. Spinal cord perfusion pressure (SCPP), calculated as the difference between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intrathecal pressure (ITP), has arisen as a therapeutic target for improving outcomes. Cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSFD) may reduce ITP and thereby increase SCPP. Randomized controlled trial to evaluate the safety and feasibility of CSFD to improve SCPP and outcomes after acute SCI. METHODS: Inclusion criteria included acute cervical SCI within 24 hours of presentation. All patients received lumbar drain placement and appropriate decompressive surgery. Patients randomized to the control group received MAP elevation only. Patients in the experimental group received MAP elevation and CSFD to achieve ITP <10 mmHg for 5 days. ITP and MAP were recorded hourly. Adverse events were documented and patients underwent functional assessments at enrollment, 72 hours, 90 days, and 180 days post-injury. RESULTS: Eleven patients were enrolled; 4 were randomized to receive CSFD. CSFD patients had a mean ITP of 5.3 ± 2.5 mmHg versus. 15 ± 3.0 mmHg in the control group. SCPP improved significantly, from 77 ± 4.5 mmHg in the control group to 101 ± 6.3 mmHg in the CSFD group (P < 0.01). Total motor scores improved by 15 ± 8.4 and 57 ± 24 points in the control and CSFD groups, respectively, over 180 days. No adverse events were attributable to CSFD. CONCLUSIONS: CSFD is a safe, effective mechanism for reducing ITP and improving SCPP in the acute period post-SCI. The favorable safety profile and preliminary efficacy should help drive recruitment in future studies.

Intracranial Facial Schwannomas: Multiple Distinct Entities Necessitating Tailored Management.

OBJECTIVE: Facial nerve (FN) schwannomas are extremely rare. According to their origin and involved segment(s), they constitute distinct subtypes. Intact FN function presents a management challenge, particularly in the cerebellopontine angle cisternal subtype that masquerades as a vestibular schwannoma. Fascicular-sparing technique with subtotal resection can maintain a good FN function. This study focuses on management to maintain good FN function. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of a cohort of 13 patients harboring FN schwannoma. Patient demographics, clinical findings, imaging, surgical intervention, and outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: Five women and 8 men, with an average age of 55.3 years (39-75 years), harbored 6 cisternal, 2 ganglion, and 5 combined tumors. Average tumor size was 28.3 mm (16-50 mm). Eleven patients underwent surgery. Seven patients had fascicle-sparing technique, 5 of whom maintained their preoperative FN function, whereas 2 patients with near-total removal had a deterioration in FN function. Two patients with preoperative complete facial paralysis had gross total removal with interposition nerve graft. CONCLUSIONS: FN schwannomas management is individualized according to the subtype and the FN function at presentation. When FN function is normal, observation can be applied for prolonged period of time. At the early sign of deterioration, sub- or near-total resection with fascicle sparing technique can be performed. The cisternal subtype masquerade as vestibular schwannoma and should be recognized at the initial exposure by the appearance of finely splayed nerve fascicles at the perimetry of the tumor which elicits a motor response at low threshold stimulation.

Perioperative Complication Profile of Skull Base Meningioma Resection in Older versus Younger Adult Patients.

Objectives To better understand the risk-benefit profile of skull base meningioma resection in older patients, we compared perioperative complications among older and younger patients. Design Present study is based on retrospective outcomes comparison. Setting The study was conducted at a single neurosurgery institute at a quaternary center. Participants All older (age ≥ 65 years) and younger (<65 years) adult patients treated with World Health Organization grade 1 skull base meningiomas (2008-2017). Main Outcome Measures Perioperative complications and patient functional status are the primary outcomes of this study. Results The analysis included 287 patients, 102 older and 185 younger, with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of 72 (5) years and 51 (9) years ( p < 0.01). Older patients were more likely to have hypertension ( p < 0.01) and type 2 diabetes mellitus ( p = 0.01) but other patient and tumor factors did not differ ( p ≥ 0.14). Postoperative medical complications were not significantly different in older versus younger patients (10.8 [11/102] vs. 4.3% [8/185]; p = 0.06) nor were postoperative surgical complications (13.7 [14/102] vs. 10.8% [20/185]; p = 0.46). Following anterior skull base meningioma resection, diabetes insipidus (DI) was more common in older versus younger patients (14 [5/37] vs. 2% [1/64]; p = 0.01). Among older patients, a decreasing preoperative Karnofsky performance status score independently predicted perioperative complications by logistic regression analysis ( p = 0.02). Permanent neurologic deficits were not significantly different in older versus younger patients (12.7 [13/102] vs. 10.3% [19/185]; p = 0.52). Conclusion The overall perioperative complication profile of older and younger patients was similar after skull base meningioma resection. Older patients were more likely to experience DI after anterior skull base meningioma resection. Decreasing functional status in older patients predicted perioperative complications.

Residual Tumor Volume and Tumor Progression after Subtotal Resection and Observation of WHO Grade I Skull Base Meningiomas.

Objective This study investigated the impact of residual tumor volume (RTV) on tumor progression after subtotal resection and observation of WHO grade I skull base meningiomas. Study Design This study is a retrospective volumetric analysis. Setting This study was conducted at a single institution. Participants Patients who underwent subtotal resection of a WHO grade I skull base meningioma and postsurgical observation (July 1, 2007-July 1, 2017). Main Outcome Measure The main outcome was radiographic tumor progression. Results Sixty patients with residual skull base meningiomas were analyzed. The median (interquartile range) RTV was 1.3 (5.3) cm 3 . Tumor progression occurred in 23 patients (38.3%) at a mean duration of 28.6 months postsurgery. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year actuarial progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 98.3, 58.6, and 48.7%, respectively. The Cox multivariate analysis identified increasing RTV ( p = 0.01) and history of more than 1 previous surgery ( p = 0.03) as independent predictors of tumor progression. In a Kaplan-Meier analysis for PFS, the RTV threshold of 3 cm 3 maximized log-rank testing significance between groups of patients dichotomized at 0.5 cm 3 thresholds ( p < 0.01). The 3-year actuarial PFS rates for meningiomas with RTV ≤3 cm 3 and >3 cm 3 were 76.2 and 32.1%, respectively. When RTV >3 cm 3 was entered as a covariate in the Cox model, it was the only factor independently associated with tumor progression ( p < 0.01). Conclusion RTV was associated with tumor progression after subtotal resection of WHO grade I skull base meningioma in this cohort. An RTV threshold of 3 cm 3 was identified that minimized progression of the residual tumor when gross total resection was not safe or feasible.

Early Detection and Management of Venous Thrombosis in Skull Base Surgery: Role of Routine Doppler Ultrasound Monitoring.

BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), encompassing deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), causes postoperative morbidity and mortality in neurosurgical patients. The use of pharmacological prophylaxis for DVT prevention in the immediate postoperative period carries increased risk of intracranial hemorrhage, especially after skull base surgeries. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of routine Doppler ultrasound monitoring in prevention and tiered management of VTE after skull base surgery. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed a large cohort of consecutive adult patients who were prospectively and uniformly managed with routine monitoring by Doppler ultrasound for DVT after resection of a skull base tumor. RESULTS: A total of 389 patients who underwent 459 surgeries for intracranial tumor resection were analyzed. Skull base meningioma was the most common pathology. Forty-four (9.59%) postoperative VTEs were detected: 9 (1.96%) with PE with or without DVT and 35 (7.63%) with DVT alone. Four cases of subsegmental PE were diagnosed without evidence of lower extremity DVT, possibly in the setting of peripherally inserted central catheters maintenance. One patient had a preoperative proximal DVT and underwent a prophylactic inferior vena cava filter but expired from PE after discharge. Prior history of VTE (risk ratio [RR] 5.13; 95% CI 2.76-7.18; P < .01), anesthesia duration (RR 1.14; 95% CI 1.03-1.27; P = .02), and blood transfusion (RR 1.95; 95% CI 1.01-3.37; P = .04) were associated with VTE development on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: Routine postoperative venous ultrasound monitoring detects asymptomatic DVT guiding management. This is an alternative strategy to prescribing pharmacological VTE prophylaxis immediately after lengthy surgeries for intracranial tumors. Peripherally inserted central catheters were associated with subsegmental PE.

Multimodal Intraoperative Image-Driven Surgery for Skull Base Chordomas and Chondrosarcomas.

Given the difficulty and importance of achieving maximal resection in chordomas and chondrosarcomas, all available tools offered by modern neurosurgery are to be deployed for planning and resection of these complex lesions. As demonstrated by the review of our series of skull base chordoma and chondrosarcoma resections in the Advanced Multimodality Image-Guided Operating (AMIGO) suite, as well as by the recently published literature, we describe the use of advanced multimodality intraoperative imaging and neuronavigation as pivotal to successful radical resection of these skull base lesions while preventing and managing eventual complications.

Resection of a Dumbbell-Shaped Facial Nerve Schwannoma With Preservation of Facial Nerve Function Through the Extended Middle Fossa Approach: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Facial nerve schwannomas are rare and can arise from any segment along the course of the facial nerve.1 Their location and growth patterns present as distinct groups that warrant specific surgical management and approaches.2 The management challenge arises when the facial nerve maintains good function (House-Brackmann grade I-II).3 Hence, a prime goal of management is to maintain good facial animation. In large tumors, however, resection with facial nerve function preservation should be sought and is achievable.4,5 While tumors originating from the geniculate ganglion grow extradural on the floor of the middle fossa, they may extend via an isthmus through the internal auditory canal to the cerebellopontine angle forming a dumbbell-shaped tumor. Despite the large size, they may present with good facial nerve function. These tumors may be resected through an extended middle fossa approach with preservation of facial and vestibulocochlear nerve function. The patient is a 62-yr-old man who presented with mixed sensorineural and conductive hearing loss and normal facial nerve function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large tumor involving the middle fossa, internal auditory meatus, and cerebellopontine angle. The tumor was resected through an extended middle fossa approach with a zygomatic osteotomy and anterior petrosectomy.6 A small residual was left at the geniculate ganglion to preserve facial function. The patient did well with hearing preservation and intact facial nerve function. He consented to the procedure and publication of images. Image at 1:30 © Ossama Al-Mefty, used with permission. Images at 2:03 reprinted from Kadri and Al-Mefty,6 with permission from JNSPG.

Integrating Stereoscopic Video with Modular 3D Anatomic Models for Lateral Skull Base Training.

Introduction Current virtual reality (VR) technology allows the creation of instructional video formats that incorporate three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic footage.Combined with 3D anatomic models, any surgical procedure or pathology could be represented virtually to supplement learning or surgical preoperative planning. We propose a standalone VR app that allows trainees to interact with modular 3D anatomic models corresponding to stereoscopic surgical videos. Methods Stereoscopic video was recorded using an OPMI Pentero 900 microscope (Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany). Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) images segmented axial temporal bone computed tomography and each anatomic structure was exported separately. 3D models included semicircular canals, facial nerve, sigmoid sinus and jugular bulb, carotid artery, tegmen, canals within the temporal bone, cochlear and vestibular aqueducts, endolymphatic sac, and all branches for cranial nerves VII and VIII. Finished files were imported into the Unreal Engine. The resultant application was viewed using an Oculus Go. Results A VR environment facilitated viewing of stereoscopic video and interactive model manipulation using the VR controller. Interactive models allowed users to toggle transparency, enable highlighted segmentation, and activate labels for each anatomic structure. Based on 20 variable components, a value of 1.1 × 10 12 combinations of structures per DICOM series was possible for representing patient-specific anatomy in 3D. Conclusion This investigation provides proof of concept that a hybrid of stereoscopic video and VR simulation is possible, and that this tool may significantly aid lateral skull base trainees as they learn to navigate a complex 3D surgical environment. Future studies will validate methodology.

Petrosal Approach With Preservation of the Superior Petrosal Sinus (the Graceful Petrosal) for Resection of Giant Trigeminal Schwannoma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Trigeminal schwannomas are benign tumors amendable to curative surgical resection.1 Excellent outcomes, with preservation and improvement of cranial nerve function, including trigeminal nerve function, have been reported with microsurgical resection through skull base approaches.2 Dumbell shaped tumors, involving the middle and posterior fossa, are more challenging.3 They are resected via a middle cranial fossa approach with the expanded Meckel cave providing access to the posterior fossa. However, tumors with a large caudal extension below the internal auditory meatus typically cannot be adequately accessed with this approach and the posterior petrosal approach is utilized.2 Specific venous anatomy might deter from cutting the tentorium. This article describes the surgical resection of a trigeminal schwannoma with a large posterior fossa component through a petrosal approach without cutting the tentorium.4 The patient is a 34-yr-old man who presented with headaches and gait disturbance. Neurological exam revealed hypoesthesia and hypoalgesia in the left V1 and V2 distributions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large dumbbell-shaped schwannoma causing brainstem compression. Magnetic resonance venography (MRV) demonstrated temporal lobe venous drainage into the superior petrosal sinus and tentorium proximal to the transverse sigmoid junction. A single temporal-suboccipital bone flap and a retro-labrynthine mastoidectomy were performed. The petrous apex was drilled and Meckle's cave opened. The presigmoid dura was opened and extended toward the petrous apex region beneath the tentorium. This provided access to and safe resection of the tumor. A gross total tumor resection was achieved. The patient remained stable neurologically and was without tumor recurrence at 3 yr postoperatively. The patient had consented to the procedure. Figures in video at 4:06 from Jafez et al, Preservation of the superior petrosal sinus during the petrosal approach, J Neurosurg. 2011;114(5):1294-1298, with permission from JNSPG.

Recurrent Chordoma Resection in the Advanced Multimodality Image Guided Operating Suite: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Recurrent skull base chordomas are challenging lesions. They already had maximum radiation, and in the absence of any effective medical treatment, surgical resection is the only treatment.1,2 Surgery on recurrent previously radiated chordomas, however, carries much higher risk and the likelihood of subtotal resection. Maximizing tumor resection allows longer tumor control.3-5 The Advanced Multimodality Image Guided Operating Suite developed at the Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, with the support of the National Institutes of Health, provides an optimal environment to manage these tumors. It offers the capability to obtain and integrate multiple modalities during surgery, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), endoscopy, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, and the ability to perform emergent endovascular procedures.5-7 The patient is a 39-yr-old male, presenting after 19 yr follow-up of a surgical resection and proton beam treatment for a skull base chordoma. He developed progressive ophthalmoplegia due to recurrence of his chordoma at the right petrous apex and cavernous sinus. Preoperative angiography demonstrated narrowing of the petrous segment of the right carotid artery suspect of radiation-induced angiopathy. The presence of radiation-induced angiopathy increases the risk of intraoperative carotid rupture, and the availability of endovascular intervention in the operative suite added favorable preparedness to deal with such complications if they happen. Given the clinical and radiological progression, surgical intervention was carried out through the prior zygomatic approach with the goal of performing maximum resection.8 The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and remained stable until he had a second recurrence 4 yr later. The patient consented to the procedure.

Transtemporal Suprajugular Approach with Neck Dissection for Jugular Foramen Tumor Resection: Operative Video.

This video demonstrates the transmastoid suprajugular approach with neck dissection to a solitary fibrous tumor involving the jugular foramen and upper cervical region. This patient was a 39-year-old man who presented with dysphagia and cranial nerve (CN) XI and CN XII palsies. Imaging revealed a large homogenously enhancing lesion involving the jugular foramen and extending into the retropharyngeal space ( Fig. 1 ). Radiographic findings supported a diagnosis of jugular foramen schwannoma. After an initial period of observation, the tumor demonstrated significant growth, and the patient agreed to proceed with surgery. The suprajugular approach allowed for exposure and resection of the tumor without mobilization of the facial nerve. The patient had an excellent clinical outcome with House-Brackmann grade-1 facial function, safely tolerated a regular diet, had intact CN XI function, and had a stable CN XII palsy ( Fig. 2 ). Pathology findings identified the tumor as a hemangiopericytoma World Health Organization grade 1 (solitary fibrous tumor). The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/C4sPyHcLMA0 .

Prognostic value of the Simpson grading scale in modern meningioma surgery: Barrow Neurological Institute experience.

OBJECTIVE: Recently, the prognostic value of the Simpson resection grading scale has been called into question for modern meningioma surgery. In this study, the authors analyzed the relationship between Simpson resection grade and meningioma recurrence in their institutional experience. METHODS: This study is a retrospective review of all patients who underwent resection of a WHO grade I intracranial meningioma at the authors' institution from 2007 to 2017. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to assess for predictors of Simpson grade IV resection and postoperative neurological morbidity. Cox multivariate analysis was used to assess for predictors of tumor recurrence. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank tests were used to assess and compare recurrence-free survival (RFS) of Simpson resection grades, respectively. RESULTS: A total of 492 patients with evaluable data were included for analysis, including 394 women (80.1%) and 98 men (19.9%) with a mean (SD) age of 58.7 (12.8) years. The tumors were most commonly located at the skull base (n = 302; 61.4%) or the convexity/parasagittal region (n = 139; 28.3%). The median (IQR) tumor volume was 6.8 (14.3) cm3. Simpson grade I, II, III, or IV resection was achieved in 105 (21.3%), 155 (31.5%), 52 (10.6%), and 180 (36.6%) patients, respectively. Sixty-three of 180 patients (35.0%) with Simpson grade IV resection were treated with adjuvant radiosurgery. In the multivariate analysis, increasing largest tumor dimension (p < 0.01) and sinus invasion (p < 0.01) predicted Simpson grade IV resection, whereas skull base location predicted neurological morbidity (p = 0.02). Tumor recurrence occurred in 63 patients (12.8%) at a median (IQR) of 36 (40.3) months from surgery. Simpson grade I resection resulted in superior RFS compared with Simpson grade II resection (p = 0.02), Simpson grade III resection (p = 0.01), and Simpson grade IV resection with adjuvant radiosurgery (p = 0.01) or without adjuvant radiosurgery (p < 0.01). In the multivariate analysis, Simpson grade I resection was independently associated with no tumor recurrence (p = 0.04). Simpson grade II and III resections resulted in superior RFS compared with Simpson grade IV resection without adjuvant radiosurgery (p < 0.01) but similar RFS compared with Simpson grade IV resection with adjuvant radiosurgery (p = 0.82). Simpson grade IV resection with adjuvant radiosurgery resulted in superior RFS compared with Simpson grade IV resection without adjuvant radiosurgery (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The Simpson resection grading scale continues to hold substantial prognostic value in the modern neurosurgical era. When feasible, Simpson grade I resection should remain the goal of intracranial meningioma surgery. Simpson grade IV resection with adjuvant radiosurgery resulted in similar RFS compared with Simpson grade II and III resections.

Dissection of the Petrosal Presigmoid-Retrolabyrinthine Approach for the Petroclival Region on a Cadaver: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Skull base epidermoid tumors, meningiomas, and schwannomas can be accessed by different techniques depending on the location and size of the lesion. Small lesions located anterior to the internal acoustic meatus (IAM) can be accessed via the subtemporal approach, and lesions located posterior to the IAM can be approached via retrosigmoid craniotomy. However, expansive lesions that are located anterior to the IAM and extend posteriorly toward the lower clivus can be accessed via the petrosal approach. The petrosal approach (presigmoid-retrolabyrinthine) is centered on the petrous ridge of the temporal bone and is mainly performed for intradural lesions located at the clivus and petroclivus junction area. Patients with intact hearing can benefit from this technique, as the labyrinth is untouched and yet the middle and posterior fossa compartments are connected. Additionally, extension of the lesion from the suprasellar area/cavernous sinus to the foramen magnum can be dissected and removed. There are variations of the petrosal approach, such as translabyrinthine, transotic, and transchoclear, with which hearing cannot be preserved, and the "transcrusal" approach, wherein posterior and superior semicircular canals are sacrificed yet hearing preserved. The endolymphatic duct is usually transected and not reapproximated. Neurotology input is always helpful when dealing with inner ear structures. This complex approach demands exhaustive practice with temporal bone dissection in a cadaver laboratory. Although this approach can be extended anteriorly, combination with an anterior petrosal approach permits more rostral exposure. In this video, we demonstrate the stepwise dissection of the posterior petrosal approach only, showing procedure nuances in a cadaver.1-8Used with permission from Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona.

Preoperative embolization versus no embolization for WHO grade I intracranial meningioma: a retrospective matched cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: The controversy continues over the clinical utility of preoperative embolization for reducing tumor vascularity of intracranial meningiomas prior to resection. Previous studies comparing embolization and nonembolization patients have not controlled for detailed tumor parameters before assessing outcomes. METHODS: The authors reviewed the cases of all patients who underwent resection of a WHO grade I intracranial meningioma at their institution from 2008 to 2016. Propensity score matching was used to generate embolization and nonembolization cohorts of 52 patients each, and a retrospective review of clinical and radiological outcomes was performed. RESULTS: In total, 52 consecutive patients who underwent embolization (mean follow-up 34.8 ± 31.5 months) were compared to 52 patients who did not undergo embolization (mean follow-up 32.8 ± 28.7 months; p = 0.63). Variables controlled for included patient age (p = 0.82), tumor laterality (p > 0.99), tumor location (p > 0.99), tumor diameter (p = 0.07), tumor invasion into a major dural sinus (p > 0.99), and tumor encasement around the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery (p > 0.99). The embolization and nonembolization cohorts did not differ in terms of estimated blood loss during surgery (660.4 ± 637.1 ml vs 509.2 ± 422.0 ml; p = 0.17), Simpson grade IV resection (32.7% vs 25.0%; p = 0.39), perioperative procedural complications (26.9% vs 19.2%; p = 0.35), development of permanent new neurological deficits (5.8% vs 7.7%; p = 0.70), or favorable modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score (a score of 0-2) at last follow-up (96.0% vs 92.3%; p = 0.43), respectively. When comparing the final mRS score to the preoperative mRS score, patients in the embolization group were more likely than patients in the nonembolization group to have an improvement in mRS score (50.0% vs 28.8%; p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: After controlling for patient age, tumor size, tumor laterality, tumor location, tumor invasion into a major dural sinus, and tumor encasement of the internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery, preoperative meningioma embolization intended to decrease tumor vascularity did not improve the surgical outcomes of patients with WHO grade I intracranial meningiomas, but it did lead to a greater chance of clinical improvement compared to patients not treated with embolization.

Combining Stereoscopic Video and Virtual Reality Simulation to Maximize Education in Lateral Skull Base Surgery.

Mastery of lateral skull base (LSB) surgery requires thorough knowledge of complex, 3-dimensional (3D) microanatomy and techniques. While supervised operation under binocular microscopy remains the training gold standard, concerns over operative time and patient safety often limit novice surgeons' stereoscopic exposure. Furthermore, most alternative educational resources cannot meet this need. Here we present proof of concept for a tool that combines 3D-operative video with an interactive, stereotactic teaching environment. Stereoscopic video was recorded with a microscope during translabyrinthine approaches for vestibular schwannoma. Digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) temporal bone computed tomography images were segmented using 3D-Slicer. Files were rendered using a game engine software built for desktop virtual reality. The resulting simulation was an interactive immersion combining a 3D operative perspective from the lead surgeon's chair with virtual reality temporal bone models capable of hands-on manipulation, label toggling, and transparency modification. This novel tool may alter LSB training paradigms.

Functional improvement in hand strength and dexterity after surgical treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy: a prospective quantitative study.

OBJECTIVE: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is the primary cause of adult spinal cord dysfunction. Diminished hand strength and reduced dexterity associated with CSM contribute to disability. Here, the authors investigated the impact of CSM severity on hand function using quantitative testing and evaluated the response to surgical intervention. METHODS: Thirty-three patients undergoing surgical treatment of CSM were prospectively enrolled in the study. An occupational therapist conducted 3 functional hand tests: 1) palmar dynamometry to measure grip strength, 2) hydraulic pinch gauge test to measure pinch strength, and 3) 9-hole peg test (9-HPT) to evaluate upper extremity dexterity. Tests were performed preoperatively and 6-8 weeks postoperatively. Test results were expressed as 1) a percentile relative to age- and sex-stratified norms and 2) achievement of a minimum clinically important (MCI) difference. Patients were stratified into groups (mild, moderate, and severe myelopathy) based on their modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) score. The severity of stenosis on preoperative MRI was graded by three independent physicians using the Kang classification. RESULTS: The primary presenting symptoms were neck pain (33%), numbness (21%), imbalance (12%), and upper extremity weakness (12%). Among the 33 patients, 61% (20) underwent anterior approach decompression, with a mean (SD) of 2.9 (1.5) levels treated. At baseline, patients with moderate and low mJOA scores (indicating more severe myelopathy) had lower preoperative pinch (p < 0.001) and grip (p = 0.01) strength than those with high mJOA scores/mild myelopathy. Postoperative improvement was observed in all hand function domains except pinch strength in the nondominant hand, with MCI differences at 6 weeks ranging from 33% of patients in dominant-hand strength tests to 73% of patients in nondominant-hand dexterity tests. Patients with moderate baseline mJOA scores were more likely to have MCI improvement in dominant grip strength (58.3%) than those with low mJOA scores/severe myelopathy (30%) and high mJOA scores/mild myelopathy (9%, p = 0.04). Dexterity in the dominant hand as measured by the 9-HPT ranged from < 1 in patients with cord signal change to 15.9 in patients with subarachnoid effacement only (p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CSM achieved significant improvement in strength and dexterity postoperatively. Baseline strength measures correlated best with the preoperative mJOA score; baseline dexterity correlated best with the severity of stenosis on MRI. The majority of patients experienced MCI improvements in dexterity. Baseline pinch strength correlated with postoperative mJOA MCI improvement, and patients with moderate baseline mJOA scores were the most likely to have improvement in dominant grip strength postoperatively.

Endoscope-Assisted, Transmastoid, High Cervical Approach for Resection of a Jugular Foramen Schwannoma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Jugular foramen schwannomas (JFSs) are relatively rare, benign lesions that account for 10% to 30% of all tumors in the region of the jugular foramen. Given their slow-growing nature, JFSs can become quite large before causing symptoms of lower cranial nerve (LCN) dysfunction, making microsurgical resection a challenge. Successful resection of any JFS is dependent on the identification and preservation of the adjacent, uninvolved LCNs to alleviate nerve compression and preserve function. We report a transmastoid, high cervical approach to a dumbbell-shaped, extracranial JFS that was causing symptomatic LCN compression. The patient presented with dysphagia and was found to have left vocal cord paralysis on video laryngoscopy and intermittent aspiration on a swallowing evaluation. The transmastoid, high cervical exposure allowed for early identification of the tumor as well as the adjacent LCNs. Neurophysiological monitoring included somatosensory evoked potentials; brainstem auditory evoked responses; and cranial nerve VII, X, XI, and XII electromyographic monitoring. Endoscopic assistance allowed for improved LCN visualization from the high cervical exposure and gross-total resection of the tumor. The patient's dysphagia improved both subjectively and objectively following the resection. The patient gave written informed consent for surgery and publication of the case report. Institutional review board approval was not required for this case report. Used with permission from Barrow Neurological Institute.