DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF SOLID BRAIN-STEM TUMORS IN ADULTS

Objective To evaluate the diagnosis and aggressive surgical approach f or brainstem tumors. Methods A series of 24 adult patients with brains tem tumors were involved. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was performe d on all patients. Surgical technique, potential risk and management o f complications were described. Results Diagnosis was confirmed by MR imaging and histological examination in all the patients. Tumors were totally or subtotally removed in twenty-two patients. Signs and sympto ms were improved in 19 patients on discharge. Conclusions Our study sh ows that MR imaging has an important value for localizing tumors, iden tifying their nature and selecting appropriate surgical approaches. Mo st brainstem rumors, except for high-grade gliomas and small ventral t umors, are amenable to an aggressive surgical approach. The favorable results depend upon the appropriate surgical approach, microsurgical t echnique and intensive care after operation. Total removal can provide both high-quality survival and favorable long-term prognosis.