Intracranial hemorrhage during GliaSite RTS manipulation in an anticoagulated patient

Abstract

The GliaSite radiation therapy system (RTS) is an implantable balloon brachytherapy applicator used to deliver iodine-125 in the treatment of recurrent high-grade gliomas. Patients generally tolerate the procedure well, with only rare reports of adverse events such as wound infection, meningitis, and symptomatic radiation necrosis. Hemorrhagic complications have not been reported. We present a case report describing intracranial hemorrhage during GliaSite manipulation in a patient receiving long-term anticoagulation for a previously diagnosed pulmonary embolism. The GliaSite RTS and the management of venous thromboembolism in patients with brain tumors are reviewed. These events suggest that normalizing coagulation status during GliaSite balloon inflation and deflation should be considered.