Indications and Limitations of Transcranial Microsurgery/Endoscopic Surgery for Benign Brain Tumors

Abstract

  In the last two decades, endoscopic surgery, such as endonasal surgery and keyhole surgery, for the treatment of benign brain tumors has evolved to be a viable strategy to achieve maximal safe resection of the tumors, thereby resulting in diversified surgical options. To provide minimally invasive treatment for the long-term QOL of benign brain tumor patients, neurosurgeons must be familiar with the characteristics of transcranial microsurgery and endoscopic surgery and have the ability to select appropriate surgical methods for each individual patient. In this article, the authors present an overview of the current status of the optimal surgical management using transcranial microsurgery and endoscopic surgery for representative benign brain tumors and discuss further problems to be solved in the future.