Acoustic neuroma Health Article

Expectations (prognosis)

Acoustic neuromas are benign and noncancerous. They do not spread (metastasize) to other body systems, but they may continue to grow and compress vital structures within the skull.

Complications

• Brain surgery results in complete removal of the tumor in greater than 95% of cases.
• About 95% of patients with small tumors will have no permanent facial paralysis following surgery. However, roughly two-thirds of patients with large tumors will have some permanent facial weakness following surgery.
• Approximately one half of patients with small tumors will retain useful hearing in the affected ear following surgery.
• There may be delayed radiation effects following radiosurgery, including nerve damage, loss of hearing, and facial paralysis.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you experience new or worsening hearing loss or vertigo (dizziness).