Passacantilli et al. report the experience with a thulium laser during the surgical removal of a tentorial meningioma. The intraoperative technique utilized, as well as the clinical and radiological results of the procedure, are described.

The thulium laser proved to be a useful tool during coagulation, shrinking, and resection of the basal implant of the tumor. Use of the laser made the surgical procedure faster and easier, and no intraoperative bleeding was noted. No side effects were observed.

The experience indicates that thulium lasers are a valid aid during resection of benign intracranial tumors under microscope magnification. Additional studies are required to define fully the role of these lasers in neurosurgical procedures ¹⁾