Acoustic Neuroma

Overview

Acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous (benign) and usually slow-growing tumor that develops on the main nerve leading from your inner ear to your brain. Because branches of this nerve directly influence your balance and hearing, pressure from an acoustic neuroma can cause hearing loss, ringing in your ear and unsteadiness.

Also known as vestibular schwannoma, acoustic neuroma is an uncommon cause of hearing loss. Acoustic neuroma usually grows slowly or not at all, but in a few cases it may grow rapidly and become large enough to press against the brain and interfere with vital functions.

Treatments for acoustic neuroma include regular monitoring, radiation and surgical removal.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for acoustic neuroma

• Experience and expertise. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in ear, nose and throat conditions (otorhinolaryngologists), nervous system conditions (neurologists), and brain surgery (neurosurgeons) have experience diagnosing and treating acoustic neuromas and other brain and nervous system (neurological) conditions.
• Team approach. Mayo Clinic ear, nose and throat and hearing surgeons (neurotologists), neurologists, and neurosurgeons work with doctors trained in brain and nervous system tumor treatment (neuro-oncologists), radiation therapy (radiation oncologists), imaging (radiologists), and other areas to evaluate and treat your condition. Hearing specialists (audiologists) will also be involved in your care.
• Treatment expertise. Mayo Clinic doctors have experience treating acoustic neuromas with several treatments, including observation; stereotactic radiosurgery; hearing preservation surgery; and nonhearing preservation surgery, a surgery performed when the tumor has already permanently damaged most of the hearing in the affected ear.
• Research. Mayo Clinic doctors conduct research studying new or improved treatments for acoustic neuroma and other neurological conditions.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology & neurosurgery and ear, nose & throat by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals in neurology & neurosurgery.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

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