Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic Neuroma Surgery in India - Treatment Options and Recovery

An acoustic neuroma is a benign, or non-cancerous, tumour that grows on the main nerve leading from your inner ear to your brain. This short explains the goals of surgery and the different approaches a surgeon may use to remove the tumour.

What is an acoustic neuroma

An acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma, is a slow-growing tumour that develops on the main nerve connecting your inner ear to your brain.

• It is not cancer. These tumours are benign. They do not spread to other parts of the body, but they can cause problems by pressing on nearby nerves and brain structures as they grow.
• Common symptoms. The most common symptoms are hearing loss in one ear, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), and problems with balance or dizziness.
• Other possible symptoms. If the tumour becomes large, it can cause facial numbness or weakness. In rare cases, very large tumours can press on the brainstem, which can be life-threatening.
• Treatment options. Treatment depends on the tumour's size, your symptoms, and your general health. Options can include observation, radiation therapy, or surgery.

The goals of surgery

When surgery is recommended, the main aim is to remove the tumour while preserving important functions.

• Tumour removal. The primary goal is to remove as much of the tumour as is safely possible. Sometimes a small part may be left behind if it is attached to a critical nerve.
• Preserving hearing. If you still have useful hearing in the affected ear, the surgeon will try to preserve it. However, this is not always possible and depends on the tumour's size and location.
• Protecting the facial nerve. The facial nerve, which controls movement on one side of your face, runs very close to the tumour. A surgeon takes great care to avoid damaging it.
• Surgical approaches. A surgeon can use several different routes to reach the tumour. The choice of approach is decided case by case, based on the specific features of the tumour.

The suitability of any treatment, including surgery, depends on your individual case. A final decision can only be made after a specialist has reviewed your medical reports and recent imaging scans.