subject: What Is Acoustic Neuroma? [print this page] Since the symptoms of this condition resemble other health problems, there are certain diagnostic tests that have to be performed in order to determine if it is acoustic neuroma. There are times when the physician has to perform an audiometry, which is a hearing test, as well as electronystagmography that makes use of abnormal rhythmic movements of the eye to evaluate balance. Brain stem auditory evoked response can also be performed to check the hearing and neurological functions. Imaging tests can also be performed to determine where the tumor is located like MRI scans or computerized axial tomography.
Observation of the Condition
As part of treating acoustic neuroma, physicians usually observe the growth of the tumor. The first thing that has to be checked is the smallest tumors that cause the symptoms of the condition. Here, an MRI scan will be conducted to determine any changes in the size of the tumor and in case there are changes, treatment will start. Unchanging tumors do not often require treatment as it will go away on its own. For more information on the symptoms of acoustic neuroma, you can check out www.acoustic-neuroma-symptoms.com/
Brain Surgery and Stereotactic Radio Surgery
In case the acoustic neuroma condition requires treatment, the patient might be required to undergo brain surgery or stereotactic radio surgery. With the latter, the physician will target the radiation directly to the growth. No incisions will be made in this procedure and this will help slow down the growth of the tumor. Stereotactic radio surgery is often suggested for patients who cannot go through brain surgery, which is another option for the condition. In this procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the skull in order to remove the growth. According to experts, the expected recovery time for this procedure is at six weeks or more.
Complications
An acoustic neuroma treatment may come with complications. After a brain surgery, almost two-third of those patients with large tumors suffered from facial paralysis. Stereotactic radio surgery does have complications as well and this includes nerve damage, facial paralysis and hearing loss.
Surgical Risks
There are times when a surgical procedure causes fluid leak within the brain due to the wound or the incision. Another common risk is infection and the patient who has undergone surgery may feel excessive tiredness and headache.
Other Risks
There are instances when surgery worsens the symptoms of the condition like eye dryness, ringing in the ear, chronic headaches and balance problems. Some patients might need a certain period as an inpatient or outpatient in order to cope with their balance problems. The risk of the tumor growing back is also high and this usually requires monitoring.
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