Foramen magnum meningioma’s management: the experience of the department of neurosurgery in Marrakesh

Our study is a retrospective analysis of the clinical data, surgical outcomes, histological finding and prognosis of foramen magnum meningiomas through a serie of 8 cases operated at the department of neurosurgery at Mohammed VI medical university hospital, Marrakesh. From January 2002 to December 2015. There were 3 male and 5 female patients (mean age, 46.75 years). Cervico-occipital pain (100%) and motor deficit (100%) were the most common presenting symptoms. MRI was the most appropriate diagnostic tool in visualizing tumors of this region. All operations were performed by the posterior approach and gross total resection was achieved in 7 cases. Surgical mortality was 20%. 3 other patients had complications like CSF leak (25%), meningitis (12,5%) and transient worsening of neurological deficit (12.5%) but made neurological recovery later. Foramen magnum meningiomas have long been regarded as difficult lesions both in terms of diagnosis and management. However, with the availability of MR imaging, newer surgical techniques and skull base exposures, the excision of these lesions is becoming easier and safer.