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Vestibular schwannoma and the only hearing ear

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

Sanjaya Bhatia
Affiliation:
Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, Italy. (presently clinical research fellows).
Sandeep Karmarkar
Affiliation:
Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, Italy. (presently clinical research fellows).
Abdelkader Taibah
Affiliation:
Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, Italy.
Alessandra Russo
Affiliation:
Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, Italy.
Mario Sanna*
Affiliation:
Gruppo Otologico, Piacenza, Italy.
*
Address for correspondence: Mario Sanna, M.D., Gruppo Otologico, Via Emmanueli, 42, 29100 Piacenza, Italy. Fax: 39 523 453708

Abstract

With the recent advances in the management of vestibular schwannomas, it is possible not only to save the facial nerve function but also preserve hearing in a small percentage of cases. Difficulties arise while managing patients with vestibular schwannoma in their only hearing ear. In this article we summarize our experience in managing seven of these patients. We recommend a watch and wait policy with a regular follow-up with audiometric testing and gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Gamma knife radiosurgery is advised in cases with deterioration of hearing or increase in tumour size. Surgery is usually avoided unless there are brainstem compression symptoms.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1996

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