Minipterional craniotomy with transsylvian-transinsular approach for hypertensive putaminal hemorrhage: A preliminary report

Background: There is no consensus regarding optimal treatment of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) till date. The role of surgery in managing spontaneous ICH is debatable because of lacking clear benefit as compared to conservative treatment. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical efficacy of minipterional craniotomy in the treatment of hypertensive putaminal hemorrhage (HPH). Materials and Methods: From January 2015 to December 2015, four patients with large HPHs accepting minipterional craniotomies and transsylvian-transinsular (TS-TI) approaches were analyzed retrospectively in terms of hematoma evacuation rate, recovery of consciousness, and short-term functional prognosis. Results: The average volume of residual hematoma was 3.68 ml with 93.53% evacuation rate. There was no delayed hemorrhage or newly developed hypodense lesion on postoperative images. Three out of four patients got clear consciousness with improved muscle strength of involved limbs on discharge from our institute. The modified Rankin scale grades were 3 at 3 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Minipterional craniotomy with TS-TI approach is a feasible procedure for HPH in selected candidate. The recommendation of this procedure is due to satisfactory hematoma evacuation rate, minimal brain damage, and improved functional outcome.