Linear accelerator radiosurgery for arteriovenous malformations: Updated literature review

J Clin Neurosci. 2017 Apr:38:91-95. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2016.12.015. Epub 2017 Jan 21.

Abstract

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are the leading causing of intra-cerebral haemorrhage. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is an established treatment for arteriovenous malformations (AVM) and commonly delivered using Gamma Knife within dedicated radiosurgery units. Linear accelerator (LINAC) SRS is increasingly available however debate remains over whether it offers an equivalent outcome. The aim of this project is to evaluate the outcomes using LINAC SRS for AVMs used within a UK neurosciences unit and review the literature to aid decision making across various SRS platforms. Results have shown comparability across platforms and strongly supports that an adapted LINAC based SRS facility within a dynamic regional neuro-oncology department delivers similar outcomes (in terms of obliteration and toxicity) to any other dedicated radio-surgical platform. Locally available facilities can facilitate discussion between options however throughput will inevitably be lower than centrally based dedicated national radiosurgery units.

Keywords: Arteriovenous malformation; Linac based; Stereotactic radiotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Particle Accelerators* / statistics & numerical data
  • Radiosurgery / instrumentation
  • Radiosurgery / methods*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome