Management of Foramen Magnum Meningioma During Pregnancy: Literature Review and Case Report

World Neurosurg. 2017 Jan:97:752.e15-752.e18. doi: 10.1016/j.wneu.2016.10.058. Epub 2016 Oct 20.

Abstract

Background: Foramen magnum meningiomas are very rare and challenging lesions. Their presentation in women during pregnancy tremendously complicates the course of gestation. Conservative management is always the first option, but in cases of a deteriorating clinical picture, there are currently no clear guidelines on best management.

Case description: A woman presents in the 30th week of pregnancy with pain and progressive numbness in right posterior aspect of neck and right arm. Foramen magnum meningioma was diagnosed and successful surgical resection was performed with intraoperative fetal hearth monitoring and three fourths prone position of the patient.

Conclusions: We believe a three fourths prone position of a pregnant patient is safe and adequate for the far-lateral exposure of craniocervical lesions. Rapid growing of tumor can be precipitated by steroids management during pregnancy.

Keywords: Foramen magnum; Management; Meningioma; Positioning; Pregnancy; Pregnant.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section / methods
  • Disease Management*
  • Female
  • Fetal Distress / diagnosis
  • Foramen Magnum / diagnostic imaging
  • Foramen Magnum / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Laminectomy / methods
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / complications
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Meningioma / complications
  • Meningioma / diagnostic imaging
  • Meningioma / surgery*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / diagnostic imaging
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / surgery*
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / complications
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / surgery*