Gamma knife radio surgery for cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Gamma Knife radiosurgery as a treatment modality for pediatric cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) by assessing mortality rates, the rate of complete AVM obliteration, and the incidence of complications while exploring potential risk factors. A comprehensive search was conducted through multiple databases to identify relevant studies, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies. The studies were assessed for risk of bias using the ROBINS-I tool and methodological quality with the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Data on mortality, AVM obliteration rates, and complications were systematically extracted. Pooled rate analysis was performed to assess outcomes, and heterogeneity was evaluated. The analysis included 21 studies involving 2142 pediatric patients with cerebral AVMs. A low mortality rate of 0.75% (95% CI 0.09% to 2.71%) and a high rate of complete obliteration of AVMs was observed, with a rate of 71.64% (95% CI 65.716% to 77.211%). Complications, including new neurological deficits, post-radiosurgery intracranial hemorrhage, and other complications (such as seizures and radiation-related issues), were relatively low, with rates of 2.57%, 2.463%, and 4.784%, respectively. Gamma Knife radiosurgery demonstrates its potential as a safe and effective treatment option for pediatric cerebral AVMs. The low mortality rate and high rate of AVM obliteration suggest that this approach offers significant benefits. While some complications were observed, they were generally non-severe. However, further high-quality studies with extended follow-up periods are needed to better understand long-term efficacy and safety.