Acoustic neuroma treatment and diagnostics abroad

An acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a benign tumor that grows from the sheath of the vestibulocochlear nerve between the ear and the brain. It grows slowly and does not spread, but it can cause hearing loss and press on the brainstem.

Below are clinics abroad that treat acoustic neuromas: compare centres, doctors and prices for radiosurgery and surgery.

Symptoms of acoustic neuroma

• gradual hearing loss in one ear — the most common first sign;
• ringing or noise in the ear (tinnitus);
• dizziness and unsteadiness;
• facial numbness, more rarely facial muscle weakness;
• with large tumors — headache and coordination problems.

One-sided hearing loss or tinnitus is a reason for audiometry and an MRI. Tumors on both sides are typical of the hereditary condition neurofibromatosis type 2.

Diagnosis

• MRI with contrast — the main test, showing the tumor size;
• audiometry and balance testing;
• facial nerve function assessment before treatment.

Treatment abroad

• Watchful waiting — for small tumors that are not growing, with an MRI every 6–12 months.
• Radiosurgery — Gamma Knife or CyberKnife for small and medium tumors: it stops growth in most patients without an incision and with a low risk to the facial nerve.
• Microsurgical removal — for large tumors pressing on the brainstem, performed with facial nerve monitoring.
• Hearing rehabilitation — hearing aids or a cochlear implant in selected cases.

The choice depends on tumor size, growth rate, hearing and the patient's age, and is discussed by a neurosurgeon, an otoneurologist and a radiation oncologist.

See clinics in the neurosurgery and otorhinolaryngology sections; general information is on the brain tumor page.

Send your MRI to Clinics Direct coordinators — we will obtain a neurosurgeon's opinion and treatment prices free of charge.