Clivus Chordoma: Outcomes of Endoscopic Resection

Abstract

Background: Clivus chordomas (CC) is a form of primary bone cancer (malignant). They are rare disorders and their treatment is difficult. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes after Endoscopic resection (ER) for these patients.

Materials and Methods: Patients undergoing ER for CC were included and were retrospectively assessed based on outcomes.  The demographic and clinical characteristics of patients including age, gender and complications rates were extracted from case records.

Results: Fourteen patients (7 females and 7 males) and the median age were 42.4 years (ranging from 14 to 66). The median follow-up time was 22.4 months (ranging from 3 to 31). Techniques typically such as CT scans or MRI, a blood test, or a biopsy was used to diagnose cancer. The most common presenting symptoms were diplopia, headache, dysphagia and dysarthria, and facial sensory changes. Gross total resection (n=10), and subtotal resection (n=4) was performed. The mean time to first recurrence was 19 months (range 10 to 22 months). Complication rates were as follows: meningitis7.1%, cerebrospinal fluid leakage 21.4%. No treatment-related neurologic deficit was observed. There was no mortality due to surgery. 

Conclusion: The ER for CC appears to be a safe and beneficial in patients. It seems, CC tumors can be resected with low mortality and morbidity