Single-session image-guided robotic radiosurgery and quality of life for glomus jugulare tumors.

BACKGROUND: Limited data are available on the efficacy and impact on the quality of life (Qol) of single-session image-guided robotic radiosurgery (RRS) for glomus jugulare tumors (GJTs). This study investigates the role of RRS in the management of GJTs and reviews the RRS literature.

METHODS: We analyzed 53 GJT patients treated with RRS to evaluate the safety, local control, clinical outcome, and Qol assessed by the SF12v2.

RESULTS: The local control was 98% at a median follow-up of 38 months. The median tumor volume was 4.3 cc and tumors were treated with a median dose of 16.5 Gy. At the last follow-up, 35 patients had recovered from their symptoms or experienced symptom improvement. Qol analyses showed no significant decline while bodily pain significantly decreased.

CONCLUSIONS: RRS is a safe and efficient tool for the treatment of GJTs. Qol of patients after treatment is stable and tends to improve over time.