Stereotactic radiosurgery for meningiomas

Abstract

Meningiomas are benign tumors attached to the dura that typically have a slow growth rate. After gliomas, they are the most common primary tumor of the brain. They are ideal radiobiological targets because single-fraction radiation has a high biologically effective dose. Furthermore, a highly conformal radiation plan can provide effective treatment to the tumor while sparing the surrounding brain. Meningioma control rates range from 90 to 95%, and the risk of morbidity is low. Radiosurgery is an excellent treatment for asymptomatic, small- to moderate-sized meningiomas. It is also ideal for patients with incompletely resected meningiomas, recurrent meningiomas, and risk factors precluding conventional surgery.