Immediate postoperative cardiac arrest after resection of a Giant Craniopharyngioma in a pediatric patient: A case report

Craniopharyngioma resection in children is surgically challenging due to its proximity to critical hypothalamic and vascular structures, and although rare, sudden postoperative hemodynamic collapse may occur. We report a 5-year-old female with a giant suprasellar craniopharyngioma who underwent tumor excision, who developed immediate postoperative cardiac arrest shortly after removal of the Mayfield head pins. Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved after one cycle of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and postoperative imaging revealed a venous infarct with hemorrhagic transformation. The child gradually stabilized, recovered neurologically, and was discharged in improved condition. This case emphasises the multifactorial mechanisms contributing to cardiovascular collapse following craniopharyngioma resection.