New Developments in Acoustic Neuromas

• Researchers continue to investigate factors that may more accurately predict the chances for hearing conservation following surgery for resection of acoustic neuromas. Preoperative pure tone average on a hearing test and the size of the tumor appear to be potential indicators. Read more about this by following this link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&listuids=16466099&queryhl=15&itool=pubmed_docsum

• In an effort to increase rates of hearing preservation following stereotactic radiosurgery, researchers at Stanford University are investigating staged stereotactic irradiation where stereotactic radiosurgery is delivered in stages rather than in one dose. The results of this clinical trial are very promising with excellent tumor control and higher rates of hearing preservation at 2 years (77%). For further information, please follow this link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&listuids=15918941&queryhl=4&itool=pubmed_docsum

• Nausea and vomiting are common for the postoperative period following surgery for acoustic neuroma as the site of surgery is so close to the vestibular center in the ear. Zofran (ondansetron) has been reported in one study to be effective in reducing postoperative nausea and vomiting. For more information, please follow this link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&listuids=16244017&queryhl=24&itool=pubmed_docsum

• Many patients experience problems with balance (vestibular dysfunction) following surgery for acoustic neuroma until the vestibular system learns to compensate. Researchers in Australia have found that vestibulo-ocular reflex exercises can speed up the rate of compensation. Read more about this by clicking on this link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&listuids=15793417&queryhl=24&itool=pubmed_docsum

• For as yet unknown reasons, some acoustic neuromas recur quickly and grow very aggressively after resection surgery. Investigators are focusing on identifying factors that may predict rapid recurrence after surgery for acoustic neuroma. Researchers found that in rapidly growing recurring tumors, there is a reduction of a factor called p27 (a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor) in 67% of those cases. Studies are continuing. You can read more about this by following this link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&listuids=16283443&queryhl=15&itool=pubmed_DocSum

• Information regarding ongoing clinical studies in your area can be obtained at the Clinical Trials Listing Service at http://www.centerwatch.com and http://www.clinicaltrials.gov