The WashU Medicine Acoustic Neuroma Program offers the highest standard in diagnosis and treatment for this disorder, also known as vestibular schwannoma. Backed by decades of experience and research, each and every patient receives a multidisciplinary treatment plan designed specifically to suit their needs.
We offer expert care for acoustic neuroma, centered on collaboration, technology, and quality of life outcomes.
Our Approach
Your journey with acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) may involve surgery to remove the tumor. Diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing evaluation require a multidisciplinary team of specialists. As a WashU Medicine patient, you’re in good hands.
What sets our program apart is our unique blend of collaborative expertise, advanced technology, and a focus on outcomes that prioritize your quality of life.
Treatment Options
Treatment plans are based on each patient’s situation, including size of the tumor, hearing status, symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. The patient and their multi-disciplinary team will work together to create the best individualized plan.
There are three treatment options for managing most acoustic neuromas:
- Observation with repeat imaging: Because acoustic neuromas are slow-growing and may even go through phases without growth, some tumors can be monitored. This is the best option for patients who are older or who have smaller tumors.
- Noninvasive stereotactic radiation: Gamma Knife radiosurgery delivers radiation precisely to the tumor to stop its growth, while limiting damage to the surrounding tissues. It does not require surgery or an incision and does not remove the tumor. Conventional external beam radiation therapy can also be used.
- Microsurgical removal of the tumor: Depending on the size of the tumor and the patient’s hearing, a team of surgeons (neurotologists and neurosurgeons) may surgically remove the tumor.
Acoustic neuromas can be approached from behind the ear (retrosigmoid), above the ear (middle fossa), or through the ear (translabyrinthine). Your surgeons can determine which option is best for your specific situation.
Why WashU Medicine?
Patients and referring physicians choose WashU Medicine because we:
- Offer nationally recognized expertise in acoustic neuroma treatment
- Use the most advanced surgical and radiation technology available
- Participate in research that drives innovation and better outcomes
- Collaborate across specialties – including neurotology, neurosurgery, radiology, radiation oncology, audiology, physical therapy, and ophthalmology.
Meet the Team
Your multidisciplinary team of providers includes surgeons and specialists in radiation oncology, physical therapy and rehabilitation, and hearing and balance testing.
