Human Study on LINAC Stereotactic Radiosurgery Dose Rates for Trigeminal Neuralgia
In an observational study involving 113 patients, higher dose rates of LINAC stereotactic radiosurgery for trigeminal neuralgia were linked to improved pain relief outcomes (p = 0.002) and a higher biological effective dose, with dose rate emerging as a significant hazard (hazard ratio = 3.43, p = 0.011).
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Why it matters
These findings suggest that adjusting dose rates could enhance patient outcomes in pain relief for trigeminal neuralgia, potentially guiding future treatment protocols.
What this does not prove
The study only shows associations between higher dose rates and clinical outcomes, without proving direct causation. Dosimetric consistency does not confirm clinical efficacy of the treatments used.
Next milestone
No next milestone was established from the available source.
Study facts
- Study design
- Observational
- Participants / samples
- 113 · basis not reported
- Randomised
- No
- Controlled
- Not reported
- Primary endpoint met
- Yes
- Relevant MS type
- Not reported
- Publication date
- 2026-09-22
- Evidence reviewed
- Abstract only
- Regulatory approval
- Not reported
- Research areas
- Not classified
Original sources
- Primary evidenceDose rate matters: comparative outcomes of high and low dose rate LINAC stereotactic radiosurgery in trigeminal neuralgia. ↗DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2026.111794
Supporting passages (11)
primary endpointClinical outcomes were assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute pain intensity and facial numbness scales.
findingsCONCLUSIONS: Higher dose rates using cone and frame-based linac-SRS for TN are associated with improved patient outcomes.
study phaseAll included treatments were delivered using a dose rate of 800 monitor units (MU) per minute or 2400 MU.min-1, corresponding to approximately 4 Gy.min-1 and 12 Gy.min-1.
study designWe analyzed outcomes of 134 frame-based linac SRS treatments for TN performed at our institution.
subjectsClinical outcomes were assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute pain intensity and facial numbness scales.
sample sizeWe analyzed outcomes of 134 frame-based linac SRS treatments for TN performed at our institution. Twenty-one treatments were excluded for not meeting the inclusion criteria.
randomizedEach treatment was performed by the same clinical team and consisted of 40 Gy prescribed to the 50 % isodose line with maximum point dose of 80 Gy, targeting the proximal trigeminal nerve root.
primary endpoint metKaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank statistics indicated a statistically significant improvement in pain relief for patients treated with the higher dose rate (p = 0.002).
interventionWe analyzed outcomes of 134 frame-based linac SRS treatments for TN performed at our institution.
publication datePublication date: 2026-09-22
limitationsTitle: Dose rate matters: comparative outcomes of high and low dose rate LINAC stereotactic radiosurgery in trigeminal neuralgia.
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