[Comparison between surgical and conservative treatment (106Ru/106Rh beta rays) of choroidal melanoma calculated by survival rate and survival time using the life table method (author's transl)].
According to the literature about 40 to 50 percent of patients with malignant melanoma of the choroid die of metastases within five years of enucleation. These figures justify the search for more effective methods and treatment. Computation of the survival rate using the life table method commonly applied in demographic studies is explained, and described by reference to the practical example of a comparison of two patient collectives. Out of 214 patients treated by enucleation, 67.6% were still alive five years later, while 90.7% of 136 patients treated with 106Ru/106Rh applicators survived the same period of time.