Although meningiomas account for only 5-10% of lesions found in the cerebellopontine
angle (CPA), other lateral skull base meningiomas are encountered near the clivus,
petroclival region, and the jugular foramen. The clinical presentation of these patients
can vary considerably according to which cranial nerve(s) or vascular structures are
affected and whether brainstem compression or hydrocephalus is present.
A variety of lateral skull base techniques are available for the extirpation of these
tumors according to the site of origin, vectors of extension, size of the tumor, and
presenting signs and symptoms. Detailed preoperative imaging and surgical team planning
will help tailor the optimum method for tumor resection and defect reconstruction.
The purpose of this presentation is to compare the clinical radiographic presentation
of 74 patients with meningiomas found in a variety of lateral skull base locations
and to discuss the operative approaches used according to the preoperative assessment.