MATERIAL and METHODS: Four patients with a retroclival EP were assessed. Computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were examined thoroughly. Diffusion MRI characteristics were also evaluated. Furthermore, our management protocol has been discussed.

RESULTS: A total of 4 patients with a retroclival EP exhibited similar imaging findings. CT revealed bone changes and a stalk-like connection between the clivus and EP. MRI revealed a lesion that was hyperintense on T2-weighted images and hypointense on T1-weighted images. Neither of the lesions showed contrast enhancement. All lesions were surgically resected. Histopathological examination of the lesions confirmed the diagnosis of benign notochordal remnant.

CONCLUSION: The approach and timing of surgery should be determined according to the lesion parameters in each patient. Large heterogenous lesions that have caused significant bone changes require timely surgery. Small homogenous lesions with a stalk-like connection to clivus should be closely monitored. Keywords : Notochordal remnants, Chordoma, Retroclival, Benign