Does Extent of Resection Increase the Survival in Patients with Glioblastoma Multiformis?

Background: The extent of tumor resection that should be undertaken in patients with GBM remains controversial. This study aims to clarify some independent predicting factors and to emphasis the role and the extent of tumor resection in increasing the survival of patients with GBM. Methods: We prospectively analyzed a cohort of 25 consecutive patients with histologically proven GBM who underwent tumor resection in surgically amenable areas for the first time at Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, between 2008 and 2011. Demographic data, volumetric measurements, and other characteristics identified on preoperative and immediate postoperative MR imaging as well as intraoperative and postoperative clinical data were collectively analyzed. Results: Statistical analysis identified the following independent predictors of survival: Karnofsky performance scale >! 80 (p=.01), extent of tumor resection ( p=.01), tumor location in functionally silent area (p=.002) Vs. tumor location in corpus callosum (p=.001), postoperative RT (p=.004), and postoperative chemotherapy ( p=.001). Conclusion: Maximal resection of the tumor volume is an independent variable associated with longer survival times in patient with GBM. Gross total resection should be performed whenever possible, although not at the expense of increased morbidity.