Occipital interhemispheric transtentorial approach in pediatric patients for lesions of the superomedial cerebellum: operative findings and results.

BACKGROUND: The occipital interhemispheric transtentorial (OITT) approach is frequently used for accessing the pineal region. There are scarce reports of using the OITT to access superior cerebellar lesions. This approach affords the patient several advantages over traditional posterior fossa approaches.

PURPOSE: This study is to describe and evaluate clinical outcomes in a single surgeon case series of the OITT approach for pediatric patients with lesions of the superior cerebellum.

METHODS: All pediatric patients who underwent an OITT craniotomy for a superior cerebellar lesion by a single surgeon over a 5-year period were included in this retrospective analysis. Patient demographics and clinical data were collected.

RESULTS: Thirteen pediatric patients were identified. Cases included twelve tumors and one arteriovenous malformation. Gross total resection was achieved in 92% of cases. No patients developed posterior fossa syndrome. Two patients had transient homonymous hemianopsia that resolved by 1 month post-operatively. There were no permanent neurological deficits.

CONCLUSION: For superomedial cerebellar lesions presenting to the tentorial surface of the superior cerebellum in patients with normal to steep tentorial angles, the OITT approach is effective and safe. This approach has a low risk of posterior fossa syndrome and permanent visual deficits when applied appropriately. Patient selection is critical for maximizing the advantages of the OITT for superior cerebellar lesions.