Multimodal management of craniopharyngiomas: neuroendoscopy, microsurgery, and radiosurgery

Abstract

Object. The goal of this study was to examine the role of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKS) and adjuvant neuroendoscopic procedures by assessing the outcome in 10 patients with craniopharyngiomas who were treated between 1998 and 2001. Methods. In 10 consecutive patients (six males and four females, mean age 12 years [range 7–32 years]), there were nine mixed and one solid craniopharyngioma. In the last three cases, neuroendoscopic procedures were conducted. Two cases required insertion of an Ommaya reservoir. In another case partial removal of the cyst wall was performed using an endoscope to create a communication with the cerebrospinal pathways and thereby preclude the need for shunt insertion. Conclusions. Multimodal management of craniopharyngiomas seems to provide a better rate of survival and greater long-term disease control. It is suggested that GKS combined with adjuvant neuroendoscopy should be used as an alternative in treating recurrent or residual craniopharyngiomas if additional microsurgical removal cannot guarantee a cure.