The value of stereotactic biopsy in improving survival and quality of life for malignant brain glioma patients.

The purpose of the study was to investigate possible differences in the survival and outcome of malignant brain glioma patients when treated by two different methods of surgery. During a 3-year period, 32 glioma patients underwent surgery and oncological protocol afterwards. The patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical method applied. The case group comprised 11 patients in whom a stereotactic biopsy was performed, while the control group consisted of21 patients who were operated on by radical surgery (craniotomy and maximal reduction of the tumor mass). All survived patients were clinically examined at follow-ups (one year and 2 years following the surgery). The monitored variables for both groups were the tumor pathohistology (the tumor type), the survival rate (time between surgery and follow-up), and the outcome assessed by The Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale. Data statistical analysis was done to compare various investigated variables in two different groups of patients. The majority of patients treated by a stereotactic biopsy survived for more than 2 years following the procedure. The great part of patients treated by radical surgery died or was severely disabled at follow-up examination. The survival and outcome for the patients in whom a stereotactic biopsy was performed were notably better comparing to the patients who were treated by radical surgery. Consequently, it appears that a stereotactic biopsy is surgical option for primary treatment of selected patients with malignant brain glioma when the survival and quality of life are concerned.