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Gamma knife radiosurgery for trigeminal schwannomas
Barbara Nettel1, Ajay Niranjan, Juan J Martin
1Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA.
Surgical Neurology
|November 3, 2004
Summary
Stereotactic radiosurgery offers effective tumor growth control for trigeminal schwannomas. This minimally invasive approach improved or stabilized symptoms in most patients, demonstrating its value in managing these rare tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Radiation Oncology
- Oncology
Background:
- Trigeminal schwannomas are rare tumors with significant risks associated with surgical resection.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is explored as an alternative treatment modality.
- This study evaluates SRS for newly diagnosed or residual trigeminal schwannomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy and safety of stereotactic radiosurgery for trigeminal schwannomas.
- To evaluate tumor control rates and clinical outcomes following SRS.
- To determine if SRS is a viable alternative to surgery for these tumors.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 23 patients with trigeminal schwannomas treated with SRS.
- Analysis of presenting symptoms, prior treatments, tumor volumes, and radiation doses.
- Median follow-up of 40 months to assess tumor growth and clinical response.
Main Results:
- 91% of evaluable patients achieved tumor growth control (15 regression, 5 stable).
- 52% of patients reported symptom improvement, and 39% had no change.
- Two patients required repeat SRS for tumor enlargement; two experienced new transient neurological complaints.
Conclusions:
- Stereotactic radiosurgery is an effective, minimally invasive option for trigeminal schwannomas.
- SRS provides durable tumor control and can lead to symptom improvement.
- This approach offers a valuable alternative for patients with newly diagnosed or residual tumors.