NEUROSURGERY OF THE PINEAL REGION TUMOURS: ROLE OF MICROSURGERY

Abstract

Neoplasms situated at the pineal region are rare intracranial lesions and generally very diverse in nature. These tumours are more prevalent in males and children. Neurosurgery plays a crucial role in the management of the most pineal region tumours. Operative microsurgical resection is still considered as a gold standard for their treatment. The two usually suggested microsurgical approaches for resection of these lesions are infratentorial supracerebellar and occipital transtentorial. However, paramedial unilateral supracerebellar infratentorial approach and more invasive Shekar’s transsinus approach can be very useful surgical options. The specifically trained neurosurgeon has a crucial role in successful resection of these tumours because only a thorough understanding of the relevant anatomy and pathology as well as the high technical skills can ensure favourable operative outcome.