An analysis of factors influencing postoperative visual outcome of tuberculum sellae meningiomas

Objective To study factors influencing postoperative visual outcome of tuberculum sellae meningiomas(TSMs). Method The clinical materials of forty-five patients with TSMs treated microsurgically between January 2003 and May 2008 were analyzed retrospectively. As far as single eye was concerned, One-way analysis and multiplicity was performed between potential influencing factors and postoperative visual acuity. Results Total tumor resection was achieved in 35 cases and subtotal in 10. Postoperatively, visual function improved in 54 eyes, remained unchanged in 24 while deteriorated in 12. Statistical analysis show that postoperative visual outcome correlate closely to change of optic disc, relationship between tumor and optic nerve, direction of tumor invasion, age, duration and severity of preoperative visual disturbance, texture of tumor, and extent of tumor removal. Conclusions Change of optic disc, relationship between tumor and optic nerve, and direction of tumor invasion are the most related factors influencing postoperative visual outcome. Key words: Meningioma;  Tuberculum Sellae;  Microsurgery;  Vision,nenocular;  Prognosis