Aims: The aims of this study were to investigate 21 cases of transcranial orbitotomy for cranio-orbital tumors and evaluate the clinical value of the surgical approach.
Methods: A retrospective study was done on 21 patients with cranio-orbital tumors. According to the tumors' location, shape, boundary, and invasion on the images, coronal scalp flap approach, subfrontal approach, or pterion approach for transcranial orbitotomy was performed.
Results: The surgical route was coronal scalp flap approach in 7 cases (including 3 cases combined with lateral orbitotomy), subfrontal approach in 6 cases, or pterion approach in 8 cases (including 1 case combined with evisceration of orbit). Tumors were en bloc resection in 4 cases, block resection or curettage in 13 cases, and incomplete resection in 4 cases. Postoperatively, the mean reduction in exophthalmos was 4 mm; maximum reduction was 11 mm. Ocular movement restriction was made better in 10 of 14 patients, whereas there was no change in 4 of 14 patients. Ophthalmoplegia occurred in 2 cases, complete ptosis occurred in 3 cases, and mydriasis occurred in 3 cases. No vision loss or cerebrospinal fluid leak was observed. Fourteen patients were followed up, including 2 patients with metastatic carcinoma who died dead because of systemic metastasis; 2 patients had a recurrence (schwannoglioma and meningioma). No recurrence was found in the other 10 patients.
Conclusions: Cranio-orbital tumors can be removed effectively through transcranial orbitotomy, whereas operative approach is convenient to the surgical procedure and can offer better exposure. Being familiar with the tumors' location, adhesion, and invasion, coupled with the skilled surgical techniques, would improve the results and reduce serious complications.