Objective: Spheno-orbital meningiomas represent a delicate subtype of intracranial meningiomas involving the sphenoid wing, orbit and important neurovascular structures such as cavernous sinus, carotid artery or optic nerve. Insidious and aggressive dural, bone and orbital involvement contains several defiances to adequate resection, which provides high rates of recurrence.
Methods: This retrospective case analysis consisted of 30 patients, who were surgically treated for spheno-orbital meningiomas performing a fronto-pterional approach by or under the supervision of the senior author (J. Meixensberger) between May 2001 and February 2006. There were 22 woman and eight men with a mean age of 54.4 years. The follow-up period ranged from 3 to 75 months (mean: 33.7 months).
Results: The majority of patients presented with a clinical triad of visual impairment (74%), progressive proptosis (55%) and visual field defects (40%). Total microscopic tumor resection was achieved in ten patients (33%). Visual acuity improved in 65% of the patients, and 40% of these returned to normal vision. Pre-existing cranial nerve deficits remained unchanged in the majority of patients (88%) and improved in 12%. Temporary new cranial nerve deficits occurred in three patients. The rate of permanent non-visual morbidity was 10% (three of 30 patients). Eight patients (27%) received post-operative radiotherapy with an overall tumor growth control rate of 63%. The overall recurrence rate was 27% (eight of 30 patients).
Conclusion: Sufficient tumor control can be achieved with minimal morbidity and satisfying functional results.