Brain stem cavernous malformations

This paper presents the author's experience in the field of cavernous angiomas of the brainstem, based on 6 cases operated in our department between 01.01.2002- 31.12.2006. In our pathology brainstem cavernomas represent about one third from all cavernomas operated. The age of the patients ranged between 24 and 51 years. The diagnosis was established in all cases based on clinical findings, CT scan, MRI and pathological findings. Regarding the locations it was the following: 4 in pons, 1 in the postero-lateral medulla, and 1 located in the mesencephalic region. All 6 patients presented neurological deficit as a consequence of recurrent hemorrhage, and due to this they underwent surgery with complete lesion removal. Favorable surgical results with only minor morbidity have been achieved