CRANIOPHARYNGIOMAS

"THE MOST FORMIDABLE OF INTRACRANIAL TUMORS"

OVERVIEW

Craniopharyngiomas are one of the most challenging brain tumors and given their rarity and complexity should only be treated by highly experienced surgeons at comprehensive skull base centers. They arise from the pituitary stalk at the center of the base of the skull and may involve critical structures such as the brain’s hypothalamus, visual pathways, and deep brain vessels.

TREATMENT

The primary treatment of craniopharyngiomas is surgical resection with the goal of complete tumor removal to maximize the chances of surgical care. This is particularly desirable in children in whom radiation should be avoided if at all possible. In selected cases, a more limited surgical resection might be preferred to preserve the function of the pituitary gland, but in many cases the function of the gland has already been compromised by tumor growth or will deteriorate as tumor progresses. Similarly, there are cases where the tumor is very adherent to the visual pathways, the hypothalamus, or deep brain vessels; in these situations, the expertise of the surgeon is key to preserve these structures while leaving the minimal possible tumor residual.

ENDOSCOPIC ENDONASAL SURGERY

The Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA) has emerged over the last decade as the ideal surgical route for most craniopharyngiomas. DrJFM has deep expertise treating craniopharyngiomas and has developed surgical techniques that are paramount to achieve complete tumor resection while minimizing side effects and surgical risks. His intense dedication and progressive experience has allowed him to successfully treat Craniopharyngiomas considered “inoperable” or “unresectable” by many surgeons