Transcerebellar biopsy of diffuse pontine gliomas in children: a technical note

Introduction The need for a surgical biopsy for diffuse pontine glioma (DPG) is increasing, and a safer and less invasive procedure is required. Methods We describe a transcerebellar stereotactic biopsy procedure that can be safely performed in young children. Four pediatric patients with DPG underwent transcerebellar stereotactic biopsies. Results All of the patients were diagnosed with gliomas, and one patient had a transient numbness of the lip margin after the procedure. Discussion Transcerebellar stereotactic biopsy is a relatively safe way to obtain a tissue diagnosis for children with DPG.