Pterional versus anterior interhemispheric approach in anterior skull base meningiomas: A comparative study

Introduction: The pterional approach and anterior interhemispheric approach are both valid surgical routes for the treatment of anterior skull base meningiomas. Comparative studies of these two surgical routes are not yet reported in the literature. Research question: This retrospective study aims to compare the surgical outcome of both approaches, pros, and cons as well as potential postoperative complications. Materials and methods: In this retrospective study the following variables were evaluated: age, sex, meningioma location, symptoms, post-surgical complications, Simpson grade, follow-up/Outcome (maximum six months), hospital stay (days), Intraoperative time (minutes), intra-operative blood loss (mL). Results: This retrospective study included a total of 22 patients (18 females and 4 males) with a female/male ratio of 4,5/1. The mean age was 59,5 ± 12,59 years. In 13 patients (59%) an anterior interhemispheric approach was performed; in 9 (41%) patients an extended pterional approach. Comparing the two surgical techniques operative time it was found a significant difference between the two approaches (p = 0,03), and a significant difference (p = 0,016) was found in blood losses during surgical procedures: a lower operative time with a higher blood loss was found performing the anterior interhemispheric approach. Discussion and conclusion: The pterional approach and anterior interhemispheric approach are two possible surgical options for the treatment of anterior skull base meningiomas. Both approaches have achieved optimal results, with total tumor resection in most patients and a low complication rate, and that the best approach depends mainly on the experience of the surgeons. A larger cohort of patients with a longer follow-up is needed to propose an algorithm to select the most suitable surgical route for surgical resection, thus reducing the risks.