What kind of tumor is an acoustic neuroma?
Acoustic neuromas are benign tumors diagnosed in 2,000 to 3,000 people annually, an incidence of 1 per 100,000 per year. Acoustic neuromas (vestibular schwannomas) are benign Schwann cell tumors that typically arise from the vestibular portion of the eighth cranial nerve.
How does Gamma Knife work for acoustic neuroma?
Gamma Knife treatment may be delivered as a single event or in multiple smaller events (fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy). Gamma Knife works by stopping tumor growth, and in some cases it even shrinks over time. Why would you want to undergo Gamma Knife surgery for acoustic neuroma treatment if a common side effect is permanent hearing loss?
Who is the best doctor for acoustic neuroma?
Neuro-otologist and skull base surgeon Daniel Sun, M.D., discusses the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular schwannomas, also known as acoustic neuromas. These benign tumors occur next to the brain in the inner ear and can affect hearing, balance and facial function.
An acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a benign tumor that develops on the balance (vestibular) and hearing, or auditory (cochlear) nerves leading from your inner ear to the brain, as shown in the top image. The pressure on the nerve from the tumor may cause hearing loss and imbalance.
How are acoustic neuroma and vestibular schwannoma treated?
The terms “acoustic neuroma” and “vestibular schwannoma” mean the same thing. It is a rare tumor that often affects middle-aged people. Acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is diagnosed using hearing tests and imaging tests. Treatment can include observation (watching and waiting), surgery or radiation.
When to seek medical attention for acoustic neuroma?
The hearing loss is usually subtle and worsens very slowly over a period of time. In about 5% of cases, there may be a sudden loss of hearing. Some patients may experience a sense of fullness in the affected ear. Unfortunately, since hearing loss is often mild and there is no pain, there may be a delay in seeking medical attention.
How are acoustic neuromas treated at Johns Hopkins?
Post-surgical treatment for acoustic neuromas (Vestibular Schwannomas) After treatment for acoustic neuroma, some patients experience hearing loss, cerebrospinal fluid leak, damage to the nerves in the face and other problems. Johns Hopkins offers comprehensive surgical treatment and rehabilitation care for all of these problems.