Microscopic versus endoscopic resection of lateral ventricle tumors

Abstract

o Tumors of the lateral ventricle are rare lesions in a general neurosurgical practice. Most of these tumors are benign and surgery is still an important component of their management. They present a unique surgical challenge due of their deep location, relatively large size, and their association with hydrocephalus. Surgical planning requires a careful assessment of the optimal method to access the lesion and to provide adequate exposure for tumor resection. o The optimum surgical approach is the one which can provide a direct view angle, minimum brain retraction and avoid manipulation of the eloquent cortex. In this review we found large numbers of cases operated by microscopic approaches by using Transcortical approaches mainly with minimal complication and recurrence rates especially in large size and solid cases. o The endoscope can be used to biopsy tumors that are best treated with radiation or chemotherapy, to confirm adequate resection of tumors and treatment of associated hydrocephalus by septostomy and third ventriculostomy in the same session with minimal complications.