Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic Neuroma Treatment in India - Surgery and Treatment Options Explained

An acoustic neuroma is a non-cancerous tumour that grows on the main nerve leading from your inner ear to your brain. This short explains the main approaches to managing the condition.

Understanding an acoustic neuroma

An acoustic neuroma, also called a vestibular schwannoma, is a benign tumour. It is not cancerous and does not spread to other parts of the body.

• How it forms. It grows from the Schwann cells covering the vestibulocochlear nerve, which is responsible for hearing and balance.
• Common symptoms. You may experience gradual hearing loss in one ear, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), dizziness, or problems with your balance.
• Slow growth. These tumours usually grow very slowly, often over many years. Some may not grow at all.
• Diagnosis. The condition is typically diagnosed using an MRI scan, which provides a detailed image of the brain and nerve pathways.

Main treatment approaches

The best approach depends on the tumour's size and growth rate, your symptoms, and your general health. There are three main options.

• Observation. For small tumours causing few symptoms, a specialist may suggest monitoring it with regular MRI scans. This is often called a 'watch, wait, and rescan' approach.
• Stereotactic radiosurgery. This is a non-invasive treatment that uses many small, focused beams of radiation to stop the tumour from growing. It is usually done in a single session.
• Microsurgery. A surgeon makes an opening in the skull to access and remove the tumour. The goal is to remove as much of the growth as possible while preserving nerve function.

How a treatment plan is decided

• Tumour size. Larger tumours may cause more significant symptoms and are more likely to require surgery for removal.
• Your symptoms. The severity of hearing loss, balance problems, or facial weakness helps to guide the decision-making process.
• Your age and health. Your overall fitness is an important factor, particularly when considering if you are a suitable candidate for surgery under general anaesthesia.
• Your preference. Your specialist can discuss the risks and benefits of each option with you, so you can make an informed choice.

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