Surgical treatment of brainstem cavernous malformations

Abstract

Background: The contemporary neurosurgeon is often confronted by cavernous malformations. Those located in the brainstem are particularly challenging

Methods: This article reviews published series on the natural history and surgical outcomes of these lesions and discusses the surgical approaches used at our institution for their resection.

Results: Despite their challenging location in the brainstem, appropriately selected lesions can be resected surgically with acceptable rates of morbidity and mortality.

Conclusions: Our institutional philosophy on the surgical treatment of brainstem cavernous malformations reflects the substantial surgical experience of the senior author.