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Assessment of endoscopic treatment for middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts

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Abstract

Background

Endoscopic cystocisternotomy is one of three surgical methods used to treat middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts. There is debate about which method is the best.

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of endoscopic cystocisternotomy for treatment of arachnoid cysts of the middle cranial fossa.

Methods

Thirty-two patients with arachnoid cysts of the middle cranial fossa who had undergone endoscopic cystocisternal fenestration between 2004 and 2009 were studied retrospectively. Data were obtained on clinical and neuroradiological presentation, indications to treat, surgical technique, complications, and the results of clinical and neuroradiological follow-up.

Results

Among the 27 patients with symptoms before surgery, 8 had disappearance of symptoms and 17 had improvement of symptoms. The cyst was reduced in size or it completely disappeared in 24 (75%) patients. The incidence rate of complications was 18.8%.

Conclusions

Endoscopic cystocisternal fenestration is an effective treatment for symptomatic arachnoid cysts of the middle cranial fossa and should be the initial surgical procedure.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China

    Song-bai Gui, Xin-sheng Wang, Xu-yi Zong & Bo Li

  2. Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China

    Chu-zhong Li & Ya-zhuo Zhang

Authors
  1. Song-bai Gui
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  2. Xin-sheng Wang
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  3. Xu-yi Zong
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  4. Chu-zhong Li
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  5. Bo Li
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  6. Ya-zhuo Zhang
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Correspondence to Ya-zhuo Zhang.

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Gui, Sb., Wang, Xs., Zong, Xy. et al. Assessment of endoscopic treatment for middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts. Childs Nerv Syst 27, 1121–1128 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-011-1399-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-011-1399-8

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