The Benign Skull Base program has developed a pilot study investigating the use of hydroxyurea for patients with inoperable meningiomas. Patients with recurrent tumors not suitable for radiation therapy may be enrolled. Patients take a daily oral dose of hydroxyurea and their tumor growth is followed closely with serial MRI's. Data from Germany is encouraging, with regression of most tumors. The laboratory's goal is to develop improved methods of accessing complicated lesions and safely removing them.
Specimen dissection is used to define, study and document anatomical relationships.
The laboratory is also available for teaching residents, faculty and community neurosurgeons. Current microsurgical techniques for removing meningiomas utilizes the arachnoid plane to guide dissection. This layer is critical to preserve because it contains the brain and cranial nerve supply. Recent investigations suggests that meningiomas may microscopically invade the arachnoid layer. We are studying the frequency and clinical significance of arachnoid invasion.