Acoustic Neuroma
Share this page:
Treatment Options
Microsurgical Removal
Microsurgical removal is a surgical procedure involving a several hour procedure to remove the tumor in its entirety. A variety of treatment approaches can be utilized. Surgery is done under general anesthesia, and the patient usually stays in the hospital for several days postoperatively. Possible complications include hearing loss, imbalance, vomiting, decreased mental alertness due to development of a blood clot causing an obstruction to the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, cerebrospinal fluid leak, and meningitis, an infection of the linings of the brain. It is only possible to save some hearing in approximately half of the most favorable cases, even when operated by the most skilled surgeons. The chance of recurrence with complete surgical removal is very low.
Surgical removal of an Acoustic Neuroma
Written by Damon E. Smith, M.D. – Radiation Oncologist