Optic nerve sheath meningioma endoscopic endonasal surgical management

BACKGROUND: Meningiomas of the optic sheath have been traditionally treated with radiotherapy, among other reasons, because of the poor results in terms of visual preservation of the open surgical approaches. CASE DESCRIPTION: Two cases of optic nerve meningioma were operated through an endoscopic endonasal expanded approach due to rapidly progressing visual deterioration and doubtful diagnosis. In the first case an exclusively bone decompression was performed. In the second one a partial resection of the intradural portion and complete opening of the dural sheath was undertaken. In both cases visual acuity remained stable without further treatment for the 2 years follow up. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopic endonasal decompression of the optic nerve by removal of the optic canal and opening of the optic sheath is safe. This approach is feasible for optic sheath meningioma. This treatment might be considered as an option in patients with rapidly deteriorating visual acuity.