OBJECTIVETo explore the surgical strategy of the tumors of petroclival region.

METHODSThe surgical data of 55 cases presented with meningioma and trigeminal nerve sheath tumors from January 2002 to February 2009 was retrospectively analyzed. All the cases were divided into full-cut group, sub-total resection group, part of resection group or divided into full-cut group and no-total resection group, in terms of various surgical strategy. The incidence of postoperative neurological disorder and quality of life status were focused and statistical analysis was carried out.

RESULTSThere were 21 patients with complete cut, 22 patients with sub-total resection and 12 patients with part of resection. There were 12 patients with neurological deterioration in full-cut group and 10 patients in no-total resection group. There was significant difference between total resection group and no-total resection group (χ(2) = 4.16, P < 0.05). All the patients were assessed based on the criterion of KPS, 12 patients of full-cut whose KPS ≥ 80, 29 patients were the same in no-total resection group. There was significant difference between the two groups (χ(2) = 5.42, P < 0.05). The mean follow-up time was 3 years. No recurrence was found in full-cut group and 5 recurrence of no-total resection group.

CONCLUSIONSThe pursuit of full-cut for the tumors of petroclival region may result in serious neurological dysfunction and poor life quality after the operation. Non-full-cut combination of postoperative radiotherapy may receive a relative better results.