Stereotactic radiosurgery of intracranial meningiomas

Bruce E Pollock1, Scott L Stafford, Michael J Link

  • 1Department of Neurological Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.

Insights

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is effective for intracranial meningiomas, especially small, non-operated tumors. Careful patient selection based on tumor factors is crucial for successful outcomes and minimizing complications.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Radiation Oncology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has a long history, over 30 years, in treating intracranial meningiomas.
  • Small to moderate-sized meningiomas are suitable for SRS due to favorable imaging and radiobiological properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review patient selection criteria for successful stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of intracranial meningiomas.
  • To identify factors influencing tumor control and radiation-related complications.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical data and outcomes for patients with WHO grade I or presumed meningiomas treated with SRS.
  • Analysis of factors including prior surgery, tumor volume, and tumor location.

Main Results:

  • Patient selection is a critical determinant of successful meningioma SRS.
  • Tumor volume, location (skull-base, tentorial), and prior surgical history impact outcomes.
  • Small volume, non-operated skull-base or tentorial meningiomas show the best outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Optimal patient selection is paramount for maximizing the efficacy of SRS in treating intracranial meningiomas.
  • Factors such as tumor size, location, and surgical history guide treatment decisions for meningioma SRS.
  • SRS offers favorable outcomes for select meningioma patients, particularly those with smaller, non-operated tumors.

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