The clinical classification and treatment of middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts in children

ObjectiveThe optimal management for middle fossa arachnoid cysts (MFAC) remains controversial, but cystocistern fenestration is effective. MFACs are divided into non-communicating arachnoid cysts (NCIAC) and communicating arachnoid cysts (CIAC). This retrospective observational study evaluated the role of phase-contrast cine magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI) in the diagnosis and postoperative evaluation of MFACs and assessed surgical outcomes.MethodsTwenty-eight children with MFAC that were diagnosed by conventional neuroradiology were enrolled. PC-MRI was performed preoperatively. The clinical manifestations, cyst volumes and PC-MRI data were analyzed, and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at the fistula was qualitatively evaluated.ResultsNo communication with the adjacent subarachnoid space was found on preoperative PC-MRI in 20 patients, and they were diagnosed with NCIAC. A statistically significant decrease in cyst volume was observed in all 20 patients postoperatively. Symptoms resolved or improved in the 14 patients who were symptomatic preoperatively, and a positive CSF flow was found in all 20 patients postoperatively. PC-MRI diagnosed eight patients with CIAC, and the cyst sizes did not increase during follow-up.ConclusionsCystocistern fenestration is an effective treatment for children with lateral fissure IAC. PC-MRI can be used to determine the IAC type and to evaluate the effectiveness of cystocistern fenestration.