With the preliminary anatomical and histological study, the membranous structures of the sellar region was considered to be closely related with the growth pattern of Craniopharyngiomas(CP). By combined considering of the tumor-membrane relationship, this project was trying to classify the CP through retrospectively summarizing the pre- and postoperative imaging (MRI and CT), the intrasurgical findings, and the endocrine data of 198 CPs with primary surgery in our hospital (since 1997 until now). As a result, a distinct and systematic CP classification was proposed. The possible originate site, surgical skills and postoperative treatment of all the subtype tumors were discussed and analyzed to provide a normalized surgical treatment for this kind of tumor. Then in the prospective cohort, the anticipated 100 CP patients will accept the normalized surgical treatment. And by the long term follow up, the postsurgical quantity of life (QOL) of patients was evaluated with aspect in cognition, circadian rhythm, endocrine, Water-Electrolyte and body weight, et al. By comparing with the long-term results of the retrospective cohort, the totally follow up data was statistically analyzed to assess the rationality of this standard treatment of CP.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Primary craniopharyngioma(initial diagnosis);
2. The sufficient pre-, intra and postoperative information (including patient's information, presenting manifestation, the pre- and postsurgical MRI, CT; Intrasurgical image, and endocrine data);
3. After surgery, patients are followed periodically. Quality of life is assessed at baseline and then periodically thereafter.

The clinical data of 198 patients who underwent primary microsurgery for craniopharyngiomas at our institute since July, 1997 until now was analysed retrospectively. The anticipated 40 CP patients in the following two years were recurited in the prospective cohort, who will be surgical treated according to the standard process.