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Published: 2026-03-09
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.52852/tcncyh.v199i2.4636
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Vol. 199 No. 2 (2026)
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Duy, P., Tiến, N. L. M., Tùng, T. S. ., & Hùng, N. M. (2026). Early surgical outcomes of the far lateral approach for foramen magnum and clival meningiomas. Journal of Medical Research, 199(2), 358-367. https://doi.org/10.52852/tcncyh.v199i2.4636

Early surgical outcomes of the far lateral approach for foramen magnum and clival meningiomas

Pham Duy, Nguyen Le Minh Tien, Tran Son Tung, Ngo Manh Hung

Main Article Content

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the early surgical outcomes of the far lateral approach (FLA) for meningiomas located at the foramen magnum and clival region. This anatomically complex area at the skull base harbors critical structures including the brainstem, vertebral artery, and lower cranial nerves (IX–XII), posing significant surgical challenges. Method: A prospective descriptive study was conducted on 5 patients who underwent surgery between January 2023 and June 2025. Results: The cohort comprised 4 females and 1 male with a mean age of 58 years old (range: 48 – 65). The mean tumor diameter was 29.6 mm. Gross total resection was achieved in all cases (100%). Complications including cerebrospinal fluid leakage, abduces nerve palsy, and delayed wound healing were all successfully managed conservatively. There were no major complication or mortality. Conclusion: The far lateral approach provides an anterolateral surgical corridor to foramen magnum and petroclival meningiomas while minimizing brain retraction and preserving critical neurovascular structures.

Article Details

Keywords

Far lateral approach, foramen magnum, clivus, occipital condyle, meningioma

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