Preoperative embolization of a cerebellar haemangioblastoma using Onyx: case report and literature review

Abstract

Haemangioblastoma is a slow-growing, highly vascular tumour and typically occurs in the cerebellum but can also occur in the brainstem and spinal cord. Because of their hypervascularity and location, cerebellar haemangioblastomas can be difficult to remove. The purpose of preoperative embolization of haemangioblastomas is to decrease the intraoperative blood loss and to facilitate excision. However, the safety and efficacy of this procedure remain controversial. Here, we report the case of a man with cerebellar haemangioblastoma who underwent preoperative embolization with Onyx. The tumour was completely removed with minimal tumour bleeding. There was no complication related to embolization.