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Updated: Mar 8, 2026
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Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
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Linear accelerator radiosurgery for arteriovenous malformations: Updated literature review
S Yahya1, G Heyes1, P Nightingale2
1Hall-Edwards Radiotherapy Research Group, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Summary
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) using linear accelerators (LINAC) provides comparable outcomes to Gamma Knife for treating brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). This study supports LINAC SRS as an effective option, though with potentially lower patient throughput.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are a primary cause of intra-cerebral hemorrhage.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a standard AVM treatment, often using Gamma Knife.
- The efficacy of Linear Accelerator (LINAC) SRS for AVMs is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate LINAC SRS outcomes for AVMs in a UK neurosciences unit.
- To compare LINAC SRS with other SRS platforms through literature review.
- To inform decision-making regarding SRS platform selection for AVM treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of AVM treatment outcomes using LINAC SRS.
- Systematic literature review comparing different SRS modalities for AVMs.
- Assessment of obliteration rates and toxicity profiles.
Main Results:
- LINAC SRS demonstrated comparable obliteration rates to other SRS platforms.
- Toxicity profiles were similar across different SRS modalities.
- Adapted LINAC SRS facilities in regional neuro-oncology departments yield equivalent outcomes.
Conclusions:
- LINAC-based SRS is a viable and effective treatment for brain AVMs.
- Outcomes are comparable to dedicated Gamma Knife SRS, supporting its use.
- Local facilities offer treatment options, but national centers may have higher throughput.
