PLENUM SPHENOIDAL MENINGIOMA

Plenum Sphenoidal Meningioma

Plenum sphenoidal Meningiomas are one type of Meningioma that originates in the front part of the skull base or the anterior fossa skull base. The tumor arises from the meninges in the bone plateau just in front of the optic nerves in the skull base. This tumor is hindered under the middle part of the frontal lobes of the brain and has the potential to grow to a formidable size before coming to medical attention. It can cause significant pressure, swelling or edema, and disabling dysfunction to the frontal lobes brain.

Symptoms

Plenum sphenoidal Meningioma can cause seizures or more insidiously progressive cognitive and behavioral changes. Patients can develop emotional flatness or aggressive incoherent behavior. Another common complaint is loss of smell and taste-related to olfactory nerve compression. In addition, as the tumor progresses, it can compress the optic nerves causing visual difficulties.

Treatment

In view of the large size of Plenum sphenoidal Meningiomas, often associated with visual difficulties, the

Treatment of this tumor generally requires surgical intervention. Other forms of treatment such as radiation or observation are not possible or advisable as primary treatment.

Surgical Treatment at the Meningioma Center

Option # 1

At the Meningioma Center, we use the focal orbital approach which can be used for the removal of plenum sphenoidal Meningiomas. This approach associated with the extradural navigation concept allows access to this tumor without hazardous exposure, direct manipulation, or retraction of the brain which permits maximal functional recovery. In selected cases, the focal orbital approach can be done through a small eyebrow incision. The approach allows for early and full decompression of the optic nerves and potential complete resection of the tumor including its meningeal roots

Option # 2

At the Meningioma Center, an endoscopic transnasal approach is an option for selected cases of small plenum sphenoidal Meningiomas. This approach allows access to the root of the tumor through the nostrils with an endoscopic tool without any manipulation of the brain. This approach requires the participation of our ENT endoscopic nasal surgery specialist.

Prognosis

Full or partial recovery of visual difficulties and cognitive and behavioral dysfunction is possible by using the focal orbital approach or the endoscopic nasal approach. Moreover, the patients have the potential for returning to their lifestyle and job occupation. Maximal removal of the tumor and its meningeal root maximizes the chances of a cure without tumor recurrence.