Acoustic Neuroma Treatment
Learn
- Overview
- What It Is
- Causes
- Risk Factors
- Diagnosis
- Symptoms
- Prognosis
- Living With
- Complications
- User Questions
Take Action
- Screening
- Medications
- Prevention
- Treatment
- Alternative Treatment
- Care Guide
- Questions for Your Doctor
- When to Contact a Doctor
- Find a Doctor
- Resource Guide
How to Treat Acoustic Neuroma
Treatment depends on your age, general health, the size and location of the tumor, and its rate of growth. Treatment may include:
Observation
If the tumor is very small, your doctor may just monitor its growth. This is common among people over age 70.
Microsurgical Removal
As the tumor grows and/or hearing becomes impaired, removal of the tumor may be necessary. The surgical approach depends on the size and location of the tumor. Complications of surgery may include permanent hearing loss and/or paralysis of facial muscles on the affected side.Your doctor will use the auditory brainstem response test to monitor your hearing during surgery.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is the use of radiation to kill cells and shrink tumors. Radiation is expected to prevent further growth of the tumor. Radiation may be used when tumors are small and surgery is not possible. This method may preserve hearing.
