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.