Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery

For people with a vestibular schwannoma, surgery is the most common treatment option for the tumor. In the case of smaller tumors, it may be possible to surgically remove the whole tumor without affecting the patient's hearing; however, if the tumor is larger, vestibular schwannoma surgery may be more complicated and can result in damage to the nerves affecting hearing, balance, and facial movement. Patients undergoing vestibular schwannoma surgery receive general anesthesia.

 

Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery: An Introduction

The most common treatment for vestibular schwannoma involves surgery, in which the tumor is removed. The goal of vestibular schwannoma surgery is to maintain hearing while removing the entire tumor. For smaller tumors, this may be possible. In cases involving a larger tumor, however, removing the vestibular schwannoma may affect the patient's hearing.
 

Before the Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery

Vestibular schwannoma surgery is performed on an in-patient basis, which means you will stay in the hospital after the procedure. In some cases, you may also need to stay overnight before the procedure.
 
You will receive specific instructions as to:
 
  • Where and when to arrive at the medical facility
  • How to prepare for your vestibular schwannoma surgery
  • What to expect the day of and the days following your procedure.
 
You will be asked to not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before your procedure.
 
Because you will not be able to drive for some time after vestibular schwannoma surgery, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home on the day you leave the hospital.
 
(Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD