OBJECTIVE: To analyze which factors influence the operative outcome, and compare advantages and disadvantages of relative surgical approaches. METHODS: Eleven cases with the foramen magnum meningioma were operated by using posterior approach with lateral extension. RESULTS: Complete removal of the tumor was performed in 7 patients (7/11, 64%), subtotal resection in 2 cases (2/11, 18%) and partial resection in 2 cases (2/11, 18%). There were no operative death and significant complication. CONCLUSION: The posterior approach with lateral enlargement is sufficient to expose and remove foramen magnum tumors without expensive bone resection.
OBJECTIVE: To analyze which factors influence the operative outcome, and compare advantages and disadvantages of relative surgical approaches. METHODS: Eleven cases with the foramen magnum meningioma were operated by using posterior approach with lateral extension. RESULTS: Complete removal of the tumor was performed in 7 patients (7/11, 64%), subtotal resection in 2 cases (2/11, 18%) and partial resection in 2 cases (2/11, 18%). There were no operative death and significant complication. CONCLUSION: The posterior approach with lateral enlargement is sufficient to expose and remove foramen magnum tumors without expensive bone resection.