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Acoustic Neuroma Treatment in Lucknow | Vestibular Schwannoma Care | I D Cancer Center

Overview

Acoustic Neuroma, also known as Vestibular Schwannoma, is a non-cancerous (benign) tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve (VIII cranial nerve). This nerve is responsible for hearing and balance, and the tumor’s slow growth can lead to gradual or sudden symptoms.

Although benign, an untreated acoustic neuroma can grow large enough to press on nearby brain structures, affecting hearing, balance, and facial nerves.

At I D Cancer Center, we use a multidisciplinary approach, advanced MRI-based planning, and precision radiotherapy techniques (IMRT/IGRT/SRS) to provide safe and effective treatment with maximal nerve preservation.


Causes

Most cases are sporadic, but some may be linked to:

  • Age-related gene changes

  • Radiation exposure (rare)

  • Genetic condition – Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2)

There is no known link with mobile phones or lifestyle factors.


Common Symptoms

Acoustic neuroma symptoms depend on size and growth rate:

Ear & Hearing Symptoms

  • Gradual hearing loss (most common)

  • Sudden hearing loss

  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

  • Ear fullness / pressure

Balance Symptoms

  • Vertigo (spinning sensation)

  • Unsteadiness while walking

  • Dizziness

Neurological Symptoms (in larger tumors)

  • Facial numbness or tingling

  • Headache

  • Difficulty with coordination

  • Hydrocephalus (rare, in very large tumors)

Early diagnosis improves the chance of hearing preservation.


Diagnosis at I D Cancer Center

We provide advanced diagnostic facilities for accurate evaluation:

1. Audiological Tests

  • Pure tone audiometry

  • Speech discrimination tests

  • Brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAER)

2. Imaging Studies

  • MRI with contrast (gold standard)

  • High-resolution CT scan (if MRI is contraindicated)

3. Neurological & Vestibular Evaluation

To assess balance and nerve involvement.

Once diagnosed, the case is discussed in a specialized tumor board to plan the best treatment.


Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, symptoms, and overall health.

1. Observation (“Watchful Waiting”)

For small tumors with mild symptoms

  • Regular MRI every 6–12 months

  • Hearing tests

  • Suitable for elderly or medically fragile patients

2. Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) – Preferred for Small/Medium Tumors

At I D Cancer Center, we use:

  • Image-Guided SRS

  • IMRT-SRS

  • VMAT-SRS

Benefits:
✔ Non-invasive
✔ High tumor control rates
✔ Hearing preservation
✔ Outpatient procedure
✔ No surgical risks

3. Fractionated Radiotherapy (IMRT/IGRT)

Used when the tumor is close to brainstem or facial nerve.
Advantages:
✔ Safer dose delivery
✔ Reduced nerve toxicity
✔ Good long-term tumor control

4. Microsurgery

Recommended for:

  • Large tumors (>3 cm)

  • Tumors causing brainstem compression

  • Rapidly progressing symptoms

Performed by experienced neurosurgeons in selected centers; radiotherapy may follow if residual tumor remains.


Prognosis

Acoustic neuroma is benign and treatable.
With timely management:

  • Hearing can often be preserved

  • Tumor control rates are 90–95% with radiosurgery

  • Quality of life remains excellent

Long-term follow-up MRIs are essential to monitor for regrowth.


Why Choose I D Cancer Center?

  • Expert radiation oncologist – Dr. Sunil Kumar

  • Precision radiotherapy (IGRT/IMRT/SRS) for nerve-preserving treatment

  • Advanced MRI-based planning

  • Multidisciplinary evaluation for best outcomes

  • Compassionate counselling & long-term monitoring

  • Patient-centric care focusing on hearing and balance preservation