Stereotactic radiosurgery for dural carotid cavernous sinus fistulas

Abstract Objective We reviewed our 7-year experience to assess the efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for dural carotid cavernous fistulas (DCCFs). We analyzed the clinical outcome, complications and angiographic results. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of 18 consecutive patients with DCCF treated by SRS alone using Gamma Knife between 2009 and 2015. Median target volume was 2.6 cm3 (range, 0.6–11.6 cm3 ) and median radiation dose to the target was 17 Gy (range, 14–19 Gy). Median follow-up period was 30 months (range, 6-65 months). Results Fifteen patients (83%) achieved a total obliteration of the DCCF and a subtotal obliteration of the DCCF was achieved in three patients (17%). Total obliteration rates after SRS were 53% at 1 year and 90% at 2 years. Twelve patients (67%) showed complete recovery from symptoms or signs and six patients (33%) showed incomplete recovery. Improvement rates of neurological function after SRS were 56% at 1 month, 72% at 3 months, and 94% at 6 months. None of the patients experienced radiation-related complications. A univariate analysis revealed that absence of hypertension (p = 0.025), seizure (p = 0.025), and cortical venous drainage (p = 0.013) were significantly associated with symptoms improvement. Conclusion SRS for DCCFs offered a high obliteration rate with low risk of radiation-induced complications. In patients with benign DCCFs that are not amenable to embolization or microsurgery, SRS is a safe and effective treatment for complete obliteration of the arteriovenous shunt and for improving the quality of life.