Acoustic Neuroma

An acoustic neuroma is a type of benign ear tumor that grows slowly in the inner ear. As it grows, it begins to press on the surrounding nerves, causing an impact on hearing and balance. Over time, an acoustic neuroma tumor can put pressure on parts of the brain, which will ultimately become life-threatening. At The Barranco Clinic, we will treat your acoustic neuroma to remove it and restore your quality of life.

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What is an Acoustic Neuroma?

An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous growth that forms on the branches of the vestibulocochlear nerve, located in the inner ear. The vestibulocochlear nerve connects from the brain to the inner ear, playing an vital role in hearing and balance.

Acoustic neuromas are formed when your body produces too many Schwann cells. Schwann cells support nerve fibers and wrap around the nerves. When there are too many Schwann cells produced, an acoustic neuroma forms and may cause serious complications and symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of an Acoustic Neuroma?

A number of symptoms may be caused by an acoustic neuroma, including the following:

Loss of hearing
Ringing or noise in the ear (tinnitus)
Unsteadiness and balance problems
A feeling of fullness in the ear
Facial numbness
Headache
Problems swallowing
Pressure in the ear

How is an Acoustic Neuroma Treated?

An acoustic neuroma requires a surgical procedure. If the tumor is small enough, the rate of growth is not particularly concerning, and the symptoms are not extreme, an acoustic neuroma may be treated with Gamma Knife radiosurgery, to slow or stop the growth of the tumor. In some cases, when surgery is required, Gamma Knife radiosurgery may also be performed to help ensure there is no regrowth of the tumor.

Surgery to remove an acoustic neuroma surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The tumor is removed through the inner ear or through a window in the skull. Your surgeon will take the size of the tumor and other factors into account to determine the correct technique to remove the acoustic neuroma.

The surgical goal is to remove the tumor without damaging the facial nerve. When the tumor is too close to the facial nerve or parts of the brain, the entire tumor may not be able to be safely removed. Gamma Knife radiosurgery can be used in this case to help slow or stop the growth of the remaining parts of the tumor, although this treatment cannot destroy the tumor.

Recovery After Acoustic Neuroma Surgery

Patients who are treated with Gamma Knife radiosurgery may return home within a few hours of the procedure. There may be nausea or headaches for 1-2 days. Once this passes, patients will then be able to return to work and carry on with their usual activities and return to work.

After surgery to remove an acoustic neuroma, patients will be required to stay in the hospital for several days to recover under observation. Two weeks of downtime are usual once patients return home, giving them a chance to recuperate and rest after the surgery. At this point, sutures and staples are removed. You will be able to return to work and continue many of your usual activities over the following weeks. By 4-6 weeks, you should be fully recovered and able to exercise again.

Your Treatment With The Barranco Clinic

Throughout our time in South Florida, we’ve continued to grow. Today we have a network of providers and 5 locations. Our dedicated team of professionals has made it their mission to provide quality, comprehensive ENT care to each patient that visits. This is achieved through:

Providing Patient-Centered Care

Each appointment includes one-on-one care with one of our highly-trained physicians, ensuring each of your symptoms receives the time and attention they deserve.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

With a network of skilled physicians, we’ve ensured we’re prepared to help address a wide range of ENT symptoms and conditions at each of our five locations.

Continuity of Care

Our staff strives for care that provides you with lasting relief from the symptoms that get in the way of doing what you love.

Offering the Security of a Community Staple

After helping patients across Florida for many years, and are proud to be members of the community.

Who is a Candidate for Acoustic Neuroma Surgery?

If you have an acoustic neuroma, you are likely a candidate for surgery. Ideal candidates meet the following requirements:

Are in good general health with no serious medical concerns
Are experiencing hearing loss, ear pain, lack of balance, and other symptoms
The acoustic neuroma is large or growing

Why Choose The Barranco Clinic for Acoustic Neuroma Surgery?

At The Barranco Clinic, patients experience a state-of-the-art facility where quality, experience, and patient satisfaction matter. Our practice that has been providing the very best for our patients for more than 50 years. We have brought together board-certifed surgeons and specialists from every aspect of the ENT field, each one dedicated to achieving last relief for patients, and improving their quality of life. Call today for a consultation to find out more about having your acoustic neuroma treated at The Barranco Clinic.