Overview

Acoustic neuromas, also known as schwannomas are non-cancerous tumors that grow on the nerve called the vestibulocochlear nerve in the inner ear. Since acoustic neuromas are benign, they do not spread in the brain or any other surrounding tissues. However, they grow and push the surrounding structure. As the vestibular nerve is responsible for balance, these tumors affect a patient’s hearing and balance.

If an acoustic neuroma is growing, it may compress the nerves that control facial movements or sensations. Acoustic Neuroma treatment options include observations, surgery, and radiotherapy. If not treated on time, they may grow large enough to compress the cerebellum or brain stem which can be life-threatening.

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    Symptoms

    Some of the major symptoms of Acoustic Neuroma include;

    • Gradual loss of hearing in one ear
    • Problem with balance and vertigo
    • Ear fullness - as if water is in it
    • Numbness and tingling in the face
    • Swallowing problem
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    Diagnosis

    It can be hard to diagnose acoustic neuroma because symptoms are similar to other middle and inner ear problems. However, your doctor might conduct a series of hearing and balance tests which may include:

    • MRI & CT Scan
    • Audiogram
    • Auditory brainstem response
    • Electronystagmography
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    Treatment

    Once acoustic neuroma has been diagnosed, your doctor will determine the most effective treatment option. Some patients recover from one treatment while for others, multiple treatments may be appropriate. Treatments include:

    • Observation
    • Surgery to remove the tumor
    • Stereotactic radiosurgery

    Why Choose Us?

    At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery Center, you can have the best treatment for Acoustic Neuroma. Our neurosurgeon is also Medicare approved and thus you can have the treatment under Medicare coverage. You will get:

    1.

    Advanced diagnostic methods

    2.

    State-of-the-art technology

    3.

    Minimally Invasive Surgery

    4.

    Patient-centered approach

    5.

    Recovery with less downtime

    6.

    Outstanding patient care

    For more information call us at 213-369-4583 or visit our office in Los Angeles today!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    A spine surgeon standing with both arms folded
    What is the best treatment for acoustic neuroma?
    A:

    Surgery is a highly effective treatment for acoustic neuroma. Surgical tumor removal prevents further hearing loss and addresses the issues of balance, facial numbness, and various other symptoms.

    What causes acoustic neuroma?
    A:

    There are no known causes of acoustic neuroma. It can either be an inherited disorder that involves the growth of noncancerous cells in the nervous system or due to exposure to high doses of radiation.

    How common is acoustic neuroma?
    A:

    Acoustic neuroma is a rare disorder that develops in only 2 to 4 persons in 100,000.

    Can you live a normal life with an acoustic neuroma?
    A:

    A patient may choose to live with acoustic neuroma if symptoms are not severe. However, if a patient is losing hearing and facing other severe symptoms, then surgery or radiotherapy is necessary.

    What is the life expectancy after acoustic neuroma surgery?
    A:

    If surgery is performed when the tumor size is small or moderate, there are more chances of patient recovery and living a healthy life ahead.