Endoscopic transorbital approach for the management of spheno-orbital meningiomas: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Meningioma is the most common benign tumor in the central nervous system and may arise from the sphenoid wing region. The tumor can involve the cavernous sinus medially, periorbital and orbital apex structures anteriorly, and infratemporal fossa inferiorly. Surgical approaches more currently used include the fronto-temporal approach, the pterional approach, and even the frontotemporal-orbitozygomatic approach. The results of safety and efficacy of Transorbital neuroendoscopic surgery for these cases are still unclear, with scarce literature on the subject.

Objective: We assessed the safety and efficacy of Endoscopic Transorbital Approach (TOA) for the Management of Spheno-Orbital Meningiomas (SOMs).

Methods: We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science databases following PRISMA guidelines. We used single proportion analysis with 95% confidence intervals under a random-effects model, I² to assess heterogeneity, and Baujat and sensitivity analysis to address high heterogeneity. Eligible studies included those with ≥4 patients treated with endoscopic transorbital approach for the management of spheno-orbital meningioma.

Results: Of the 3520 studies initially identified, 9 were selected, involving 216 patients, with a median follow-up of 20 months. For subtotal resection, pooled analysis confirmed a rate of 40% (CI: 24% to 57%) and a total resection rate of 46% (CI: 27% to 65%). The analysis also confirmed a rate of visual deficits of 10% (CI: 0% to 24%). The rate of cerebrospinal fluid leak was 2% (CI: 0% to 5%), and diplopia occurred in 8% of cases (CI: 0% to 18%).

Conclusion: ETOA is a safe and minimally invasive approach for spheno-orbital meningiomas, with low complication rates and effective cranial nerve preservation. However, its tumor resection efficacy is inferior to non-minimally invasive techniques, potentially affecting long-term outcomes. Further studies are needed to clarify its role and optimize tumor control in selected cases.

Keywords: Endoscopic transorbital approach; Minimally invasive surgery; Spheno-orbital meningioma.