Acoustic neuromas are non-cancerous (benign) tumors that grow on the hearing and balance nerve. They are also called vestibular schwannomas.

These tumors are made up of cells called Schwann cells that are insulating cells within nerves. They grow at a very slow rate, but over time will cause hearing loss and balance difficulties. Since they are slow growing, they often do not need anything more done than observation. They can grow to size that can put the brain at risk and require treatment.

Small acoustic neuroma on the left sideThey occur in approximately one in 100,000 people.

Treatment options for acoustic neuromas include surgical removal or radiation. There are several different ways to remove them in surgery. Different approaches are better than others depending on the size and age of the patient.

The appropriate surgery is decided on by the neurotologists, David Kaylie, MD,  or Debara Tucci, MD, and the neurosurgeon. Radiation therapy is also a good option for certain patients. Kaylie and Tucci work with radiation doctors to ensure best hearing outcomes in patients that choose to have radiation.