Long-term results of stereotactic gamma radiosurgery of meningiomas

Abstract

Background: The early effects at a mean of 30 months and long-term results at 7 years after gamma radiosurgery for meningiomas were evaluated.

Methods: Changes in tumor size were evaluated every 3 to 6 months after treatment using a five-point grading system, as well as changes in neurological signs and general status.

Results: Early effects in 87 cases of benign meningioma showed a minimal size reduction of 16.1% and a response rate of 8.0%, but a higher control rate of 93%. The cavernous sinus meningioma showed a size reduction of 23.2%, a response rate of 11.1%, and control of 100%. A greater size reduction of 24.8% and response rate of 33.3%, but a lower control rate of 75% were obtained in 12 cases of malignant meningioma. Side effects were found in 12 cases (13.8%): radiation-induced edema in 9, hearing disturbance in 2, and visual deterioration in 1. Long-term results for 54 of 87 patients with benign tumors showed that response increased from 8% to 42.6% but control decreased slightly due to increased disease progression.

Conclusion: Gamma radiosurgery is effective and safe for meningiomas to control residual or recurrent tumors after surgery and initial tumors, with acceptable side effects and rate of tumor progression.