Surgical management of meningiomas: Balancing radical resection with functional preservation

Background: Meningiomas are prevalent primary brain tumors that can manifest with a range of biological behaviors, ranging from benign to malignant. They are primarily treated surgically, but this requires maximizing tumor resection while preserving neurological function. Methodology: A comprehensive investigation of the recent literature was performed with respect to meningioma surgical management. The surgical methods and outcomes were assessed, along with advances in preoperative imaging and their influence on surgical planning. Clinical trial and case study data were collected from peer-reviewed journals during the last decade on tumor resection rates, complications in postoperative periods, and quality of life measures. The results obtained from this comprehensive review are discussed below. The findings suggest that radical (Simpson Grade I or II) resection leads to a significantly lower recurrence rate of the tumor but at the price of some postoperative neurological deficit. Recent advances in neuroimaging, such as intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring, have contributed to the enhancement of quality and functional preservation. These minimally invasive procedures have been shown to be effective alternatives in selected cases, with the advantage of reduced recovery periods and postoperative morbidity. The outcomes of these procedures have been shown to be positively associated with the quality of life of the patient post-surgery. Conclusion: The surgical management of meningiomas is a multidisciplinary endeavor that weighs radical tumor resection against the risk of neurological function impairment. The advent of advanced imaging technologies and minimally invasive techniques has the potential to yield enhanced outcomes. Future studies should focus on the development of individualized surgical strategies based on oncological control as well as functional preservation to improve the quality of life in patients.