Total resection of foramen magnum meningioma via a far-lateral approach – a case report

Abstract

Introduction and aim. The foramen magnum is a rare location of meningioma development, accounting for 1.8 to 3.2% of all reported tumors of this type. Microsurgical resection, representing a gold standard in foramen magnum meningioma treat ment, may result in various neurological deficits or incomplete resection due to challenging anatomical conditions. Currently, even surgical resections of foramen magnum meningioma conducted by experienced neurosurgeons are burdened by a relatively high complication rate of 17.2% Description of the case. We report the case of a 25-year-old male who presented increasing headaches and decreasing activity for 5 months. In his medical history, the patient had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, and suffered partial seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed anterolateral foramen magnum meningioma. The tumor was resected via a far-lateral approach. After the surgery, the patient maintained a preoperative neurological state without additional neurological deficits. The post-operative magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated complete tumor removal. Histopatholog ical examination revealed transitional meningioma (WHO grade I). Conclusion. Our case demonstrates that the far-lateral approach can be efficient for the resection of anterolateral foramen magnum meningioma. In such cases, Simpson grade 1 can be achieved without complications, providing immediate relief of symptoms and minimizing the risk of recurrence.