Abstract
BACKGROUND: Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is being used for the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Lesions can be treated using 1 or multiple LITT fibers depending on the preference of surgeons. Usually, more fibers are needed for coverage of larger tumors.
OBJECTIVE: To investigate and analyze how tumor size affected the number of LITT fibers used.
METHODS: This is a retrospective review of patients undergoing treatment of recurrent GBM. Patients were treated with up to 4 LITT fibers for adequate tumor coverage. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, length of stay, complications, and biopsy results were recorded.
RESULTS: A total of 43 cases were treated using LITT, and of these cases, 31 consisted of contiguous lesions. We used more fibers to treat larger tumor volumes. On average, for each 5 cc of tumor volume, a fiber was added for proper coverage (P=.554). Complications and length of stay were similar across the groups (P=.378, P=.941).
CONCLUSION: LITT can be used for the treatment of recurrent GBM. For each 5 cc of tumor volume, a LITT fiber can be added to the treatment plan.
