Keyhole Superior Interhemispheric Approach to Midline Meningiomas of the Far Frontal Region of the Anterior Skull Base: Cadaveric Study and Illustrative Cases

Abstract

Objective: Unique challenges can present in the treatment of small to mid-sized meningiomas that arise from the region of the anterior most aspect of the falx cerebri including its junction with the anterior skull base, what we call the far frontal region. Although this region of the anterior skull base is considered in the surgical approach of olfactory groove meningiomas invading this space, important differences exist between these tumors and those of the far frontal region.

Methods: Toward refining surgical selection, our cadaveric study details a minimally invasive keyhole superior interhemispheric approach to the far frontal region and 2 illustrative cases show the feasibility of this approach.

Results: Our cadaveric study defines 5 steps of the approach from the incision, craniectomy, dural opening, approaching the skull base and ipsilateral exposure, and finally falcine resection and bilateral skull base exposure. Two illustrative cases with the approach confirmed visualization of the full extent of tumor and gross total resection with preservation of the unaffected olfactory bulb.

Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, our anatomic study is distinctively unique in quantifying the working distance of the keyhole superior interhemispheric exposure and refining visualization of the far frontal region. We discuss these benefits and limitations (i.e., substantial involvement of tumor beyond midline) and differences with large meningiomas of the olfactory groove and far frontal region with significant posterior or lateral extension for which conventional exposures are appropriate.

Keywords: Anterior skull base; Keyhole surgery; Meningioma; Minimally invasive.