Acoustic Neuroma Treatment
Treatment for acoustic neuroma -- a type of skull base tumor -- takes a team of providers, including neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists, otologists and neurotologists (specialized ear, nose, and throat doctors who complete an additional two years of training to treat ear disorders), and radiation oncologists, among others. This team works closely with you to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses your unique situation and needs. Depending on your treatment preferences, symptoms, and the size and location of your acoustic neuroma, a watchful waiting approach may be an option for you. More comprehensive treatments to address the tumor itself include:
Lateral Skull Base Surgery
The best hospitals for acoustic neuroma surgery have surgeons like ours who are specifically trained and highly experienced in removing acoustic neuromas. We conduct a careful evaluation and examination to learn more about your condition and medical history before determining whether surgery on the lateral (side) of your skull is the best option. Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive techniques to reduce hearing loss, improve balance, and minimize facial weakness. When appropriate, we use surgical approaches that are most likely to preserve hearing. When large tumors or significant hearing loss is present, we may use an approach that is more direct.
Radiation Therapy
Image-guided radiation therapy, including stereotactic radiosurgery, targets the tumor while preserving healthy brain tissue. We use several imaging tools, including MRI and CT scans, to pinpoint the location of the neuroma and target the radiation dose.
Medication
Medications are sometimes used in conjunction with radiation therapy or surgery. We assess the size and location of your acoustic neuroma and your symptoms to develop the best treatment plan
Treating Effects of Acoustic Neuromas
Beyond treating the tumor itself, we have a wide range of options to treat the possible symptoms of an acoustic neuroma, including hearing loss, balance problems, and facial weakness or facial paralysis.
Cochlear Implants
Our surgeons can work around acoustic neuromas -- sometimes leaving them, or a portion of them, and the cochlear nerve intact -- and inserting a cochlear implant to preserve or restore hearing. Duke is one of the few centers in the U.S. where surgeons have successfully performed this novel procedure, and is one of the only sites where surgeons remove the tumor and place the cochlear implant during the same surgery.