What is a Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma)?

Acoustic neuromas are benign, slow-growing tumours that develop along the eighth cranial nerve, also known as the vestibulocochlear nerve. This nerve connects the brain to the inner ear and plays a vital role in hearing and balance.

These tumours originate from Schwann cells, which envelop and support nerve fibers—hence the name vestibular schwannoma. Although schwannomas can occur on any cranial or peripheral nerve, acoustic neuromas are the most common type found in the brain.

They typically arise at the junction where the central nervous system transitions into the peripheral nervous system, a location called the porus acusticus.

Signs and Symptoms of an Acoustic Neuroma

The earliest and most common symptom is hearing loss in one ear. Other signs may include:

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Balance problems
Vertigo

As the tumour grows, additional symptoms may appear:

Facial weakness or numbness
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Altered sense of taste
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Blurred or double vision

Causes of Acoustic Neuromas

These tumours result from the uncontrolled growth of Schwann cells, which help stabilize and insulate the hearing and balance nerves. The exact cause of this cell overgrowth is not fully understood.

However, individuals with a genetic disorder known as neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) are at risk of developing bilateral acoustic neuromas—tumours on both the right and left auditory nerves.

Diagnosis of Acoustic Neuroma

Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and conduct a physical examination. Diagnostic tests may include:

MRI and CT scans for imaging
Hearing tests, such as auditory brainstem response
Balance assessments
Electronystagmography (ENG)

Treatment Options for Acoustic Neuroma

Treatment depends on the size, location, growth rate of the tumour, and the patient’s overall health. Options include:

Monitoring: Small, slow-growing tumours are often monitored with regular MRI scans. Treatment is initiated only if growth is observed.
Surgery: Removal of all or part of the tumour through a skull incision. This is generally performed under general anesthesia for larger or growing tumours.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery: A non-invasive technique using targeted radiation to treat small tumours or remaining fragments after surgery.

Each treatment option has potential risks. For example, facial numbness or paralysis may occur after surgery or radiosurgery. It's important to discuss all options, risks, and benefits with your specialist.

What to Expect if You Have an Acoustic Neuroma

Your experience will depend on your specific case and treatment type. Your neurosurgeon will explain expected outcomes and possible complications. This may include:

Future treatment options if the tumour recurs
Devices for hearing restoration, such as bone conduction implants or CROS hearing aids

Self-Care and Support

In many cases, your doctor may recommend a “watch-and-wait” approach. If you're anxious about changes in hearing or balance, speak with your doctor about which symptoms to monitor closely.

If symptoms worsen, surgery may be advised. Some surgical procedures can affect balance-related nerves. In such cases, vestibular rehabilitation therapy may be recommended to help with recovery.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Do I need treatment now, or will the tumour be monitored?
Is there a chance I’ll retain hearing in the affected ear?
What are the chances of tumour recurrence after treatment?
Am I at risk of developing other types of tumours?
What are the risks and benefits of surgery?
Will I need rehabilitation after the procedure?

Why Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma) Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital has the most trusted team of ENT specialists and surgeons with advanced diagnostic equipment care for Vestibular Schwannoma treatment in Lucknow, India. Our ENT department follows international safety standards and has years of experience in treating Skull Base related Disease and Conditions.