Open Access3D Volumetric Conformal Analysis of Vestibular Schwannomas
Author(s) -
Walz Patrick,
Robinett Zachary,
Kirsch Claudia,
Bush Matthew L.,
Welling D Bradley
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
otolaryngology–head and neck surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.232
H-Index - 121
eISSN - 1097-6817
pISSN - 0194-5998
DOI - 10.1177/0194599811415823a221
Subject(s) - nuclear medicine , medicine , vestibular schwannomas , volume (thermodynamics) , radiology , vestibular system , physics , quantum mechanics
Objective Compare 3D conformal volumetric analysis (3DCVA) versus traditional linear measurements on serial MRI imaging of vestibular schwannomas (VS) for determination and assessment of accurate tumor volume and growth rates. Method Retrospectively identified VS patients followed with serial 0.7‐3.0 Tesla MRI were included. Maximal linear dimensions were obtained from gadolinium‐contrasted T1 sequences from 3 serial MRI scans per RECIST guidelines. Volumetric analysis was performed with semiautomated 3DCVA. Annual tumor growth rate and percentage change were compared for linear and volumetric measurements. Results The average time span during which the serial MRI scans were obtained was 2.86 years in this initial retrospective analysis of 11 patients. The linear growth measurements averaged 0.5 mm/y, corresponding to a 6.4% average change per year. With 3DCVA the average tumor growth rate was 5mm3/y, corresponding to 3.7 mm/y growth in each dimension. There was an average increase in tumor volume of 29% per year with 3DCVA, compared with 6.4% with linear measurements. The difference in percentage change per year between methods was significant when compared with paired 2‐tailed t‐test ( P =. 036). Conclusion VS assume complex configurations. In this initial retrospective study, linear measurements may underestimate true tumor growth compared to 3D conformal volumetric analysis. 3DCVA may provide a more robust tool in assessing tumor volume, growth rate, and volume change for a more accurate reflection of tumor progression compared to linear measurements.