Modified One-Piece Extended Transbasal Approach for Endoscopic-Assisted Microsurgical Resection of Tuberculum Sellae Meningioma: Operative Video and Technical Nuances

Abstract

The optimal approach for surgical resection of tuberculum sellae meningiomas remains controversial. Approach selection is largely based on a variety of factors, such as tumor size, extent and location relative to the optic canal and internal carotid artery, the presence of vascular encasement, and surgeon's preference. In this operative video manuscript, the authors demonstrate the importance of an open transcranial approach when the tumor extends lateral to the optic nerve over the internal carotid artery into the opticocarotid triangle, which is a difficult region to safely access with a purely endoscopic endonasal approach. We present a case of an endoscopic-assisted microsurgical resection of a tuberculum sellae meningioma using a modified one-piece extended transbasal approach in a patient with unilateral visual loss. The approach allows both interhemispheric and subfrontal routes to the suprasellar region. Early optic nerve decompression and division of the falciform ligament is critical to optimize visual outcomes. This video atlas demonstrates the operative technique and surgical nuances of the skull base approach, optic nerve decompression, tumor-arachnoid dissection, and safe handling of the neurovascular structures. A gross total resection was achieved and the patient had restoration of normal vision with normal pituitary function. In summary, the modified one-piece extended transbasal approach with endoscopic assistance is an important strategy in the armamentarium for surgical management of tuberculum sellae meningiomas.

The link to the video can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKNtRzMSFVE.

Keywords

tuberculum sellae meningioma - transbasal approach - microsurgical technique - endoscopic-assisted microsurgery - operative video

Fig. 1 Preoperative (A and B) and postoperative (C and D) post-gadolinium T1-weighted MRI of a tuberculum sellae meningioma removed via a modified one-piece extended transbasal approach.

Fig. 2 (A) Intraoperative microsurgical view of tumor removal via the right subfrontal route. (B) Endoscopic view of suprasellar region after tumor removal.

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Conflict of Interest

None declared.