Management of the large cranial osteoma: experience with 13 adult patients

Abstract

Background: Large osteomas are benign, slow-growing and rare neoplasms of the skull, which are usually asymptomatic but may need surgical resection.

Patient and methods: We reported a series of 13 adult patients who had large cranial osteomas and who underwent surgical treatment over a period of 5 years. All of the patients were male and the mean age was 21.8 years.

Findings: Craniectomy associated with cranioplasty was performed in 10 patients and drilling of the bone tumor was performed in 3 patients. Tumour regrowth was not observed in any patient.

Conclusion: Although most of the cranial osteomas are asymptomatic, surgical treatment is indicated for large ones. Each patient must be individualized and the selection of the type of surgery depends on the shape and growth pattern of the osteoma.