Surgical treatment of trigeminal neurinomas

Objective To investigate the best surgical approach for the removal of trig eminal neurinomas (TNs). Methods A retrospective analysis of 75 patients with TNs in Huashan Hospita l was carried out. Results In the early group (1978 - 1984), a series of conventional intradur al approaches were used; in the late group (1985 - 1995), an epidural appro ach via the skull-base craniotomy was used. Total tumor removal was achieve d in 58% (20/35) of patients in the early group and 80% (32/40) in the late group (P < 0. 025). Temporary and permanent cranial nerve morbidity were 6 2.7% and 37% in the early group and 28.1% and 10% in the late group (P < 0. 001). Conclusion The best microsurgical approach for the removal of trigeminal ne urinomas except those confined to the posterior fossa is epidural approach or epiduro-transduro-transtentorial approach via the skull-base craniotomy.