Follow-up After Surgery for Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytomas in Children

Frequency of Office Visits

• Initial visit: The first office visit is is approximately 6 weeks after surgery.
• First follow-up visit: A follow-up visit is then usually scheduled approximately 3 months after surgery.
• Subsequent visits: Subsequent visits are scheduled every 3 months for the first 6 months, then every 6 months for the next year, and then yearly for 2 years. After this period, the child is seen every 2 years for follow-up. High-risk patients need to be seen more often, and more frequent scanning needs to be considered. The child should be seen by the neurosurgeon. An endocrinologist and neuropsychologist may also see the child if necessary

Frequency of Imaging

• Postoperative scan: A MRI is obtained in the first 24–72 hours after the surgery.
• Follow-up scans: A MRI is done after 3 months to get an accurate assessment of the completeness of tumor excision and resolution of hydrocephalus. Residual tumor, if any, will require further follow-up imaging.

Other Investigations Required

• Ophthalmological evaluation: The vision of patients with longstanding hydrocephalus may be affected and needs to be monitored.
• Neuropsychological testing: Assessment of cognitive function and need for rehabilitation may be required.