Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy of acoustic neuroma: volume changes and hearing results after 89-month median follow-up.

Purpose: The goal of this work was to evaluate toxicity and local control following hypofractionated stereotactic radiation treatment with special focus on changes in tumor volume and hearing capacity.

Patients And Methods: In all, 29 patients with unilateral acoustic neuroma were treated between 2001 and 2007 within a prospective radiation protocol (7 × 4 Gy ICRU dose). Median tumor volume was 0.

Efficacy of cerebrospinal fluid fistula repair: sensitive quality control using the beta-trace protein test.

Background: After cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula repair, the goal of watertight sealing may not always be achieved, causing postoperative CSF leakage. The aim of this study was to assess the novel application of the beta-trace protein (betaTP) test for postoperative screening and confirmation of dura repair success.

Methods: Prospectively, we investigated 32 consecutive patients who underwent dura repair.

Comprehensive algorithm for skull base dural lesion and cerebrospinal fluid fistula diagnosis.

Objectives/hypothesis: Skull base dural lesions and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulas are potentially vital conditions whose diagnosis can be challenging. The authors' aim was to compose a comprehensive algorithm that combines the most modern diagnostic tools in easily applicable patterns to indicate a possible dural lesion or CSF fistula.

Study Design: Prospective clinical study.

Beta-trace protein test: new guidelines for the reliable diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid fistula.

Objective: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistulas need to be reliably diagnosed for the optimal management. Recently, in preference to beta2-transferrin, another CSF protein, beta-trace protein (betaTP), is similarly used with a new method for CSF diagnosis. This study evaluates the sensitive interpretation and limits of this new betaTP test for use in routine CSF fistula diagnosis.