Treatment Options for Acoustic Neuromas

Prognosis for Acoustic Neuromas

Thanks to modern imaging tests, the diagnosis of acoustic neuromas can now be made earlier so that many tumors are smaller upon discovery. The diagnosis of acoustic neuroma does not hold the same threat as it did in past decades. Early in the 20th century, the mortality rate following surgery was extremely high. Thanks to advances in imaging, microsurgery, and intraoperative monitoring of nerve function, the risks of death, facial paralysis, and hearing loss have been greatly reduced. Today, many tumors can be treated effectively with both surgery and radiation therapy.

The outcomes for small tumors are generally more favorable (and the complication rate from treatment is lower) than for larger tumors. After treatment, patients with large tumors (larger than 2.5 cm) are likely to experience significant hearing loss and preservation of hearing may not be possible. The likelihood of hearing loss increases with the size of the tumor. An acoustic neuroma that continues to grow and is not treated or removed will ultimately result in brainstem compression, hydrocephalus, herniation, and death.