An acoustic neuroma refers to a noncancerous tumor that grows slowly and may or may not cause problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of an acoustic neuroma include gradual hearing loss that may be sudden in some cases. It can also lead to a loss of balance, ringing in the ears and facial weakness or numbness. Permanent hearing loss, facial paralysis and trouble walking can result if an acoustic neuroma is untreated. There are many acoustic neuroma treatments.
Monitoring
Simply monitoring the growth is advisable especially if the tumor is small. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation (AHRF), 25 percent of acoustic neuromas are treated with monitoring. Specifically, the patient will be monitored for any neurological problems such as facial paralysis. Also, various images will be obtained to assess whether the tumor is growing. The AHRF says that the tumor typically grows 1mm to 1.5mm per year. Magnetic imaging resonance (MRI) can be used to track the acoustic neuroma growth. Sometimes the use of hearing aids can be beneficial.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery
Stereotactic radiosurgery refers to a medical treatment in which high levels of X-ray energy are focused onto the acoustic neuroma. According to MedlinePlus, people receiving this treatment will be lying down. The head will be secured with a frame to make sure that there is minimal movement during the procedure. A computed tomography (CT) or MRI machine will then help locate the acoustic neuroma as high energy radiation beams are directed at the tumor. This is typically done under local anesthesia in which the person is awake and the targeted region is numbed.
Surgery
Surgery is another option for treating an acoustic neuroma. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, three types of surgical approaches are used to remove the acoustic neuroma. It can be removed through the back part of the skull. This is medically known as the rectosigmoid or suboccipital approach. The acoustic neuroma also can be removed through the inner portion of the ear. This is called the translabyrinthine approach. The final treatment method involves removal through a portion of the skull called the middle fossa.
Complications of these surgeries can include dizziness, hearing loss, meningitis (brain infection), a headache, facial weakness, a stroke or injury to a part of the brain.
Cochlear Implant
In some cases, a cochlear implant can be performed, especially if the acoustic neuroma is in one ear or if acoustic neuromas are surgically removed in both ears, says the American Hearing Research Foundation. A cochlear implant is a device placed into the tiny organs of the ears to improve hearing.
