About Vestibular Schwannoma
Key Highlights
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Aims for complete tumor removal to prevent further growth and neurological complications.Performed with a focus on preserving critical facial nerve function to maintain facial movement and expression.In select cases, strives to preserve existing hearing function depending on the surgical approach and tumor characteristics.Effectively alleviates symptoms like tinnitus (ringing in the ears), vertigo, and balance issues.Utilizes advanced microsurgical techniques and intraoperative monitoring for enhanced precision and safety.
Who is this surgery for?
- Progressive or significant hearing loss in one ear (asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss).
- Growth of a vestibular schwannoma on serial MRI scans.
- Tumor size causing brainstem compression or increased intracranial pressure.
- Intractable symptoms such as severe tinnitus, vertigo, or balance disturbances affecting quality of life.
- Patient preference for definitive treatment over observation (watchful waiting) or radiation therapy.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including audiological tests (audiogram) and high-resolution MRI of the internal auditory canals.
- Consultation with the surgical team (ENT and neurosurgeon) to discuss the chosen surgical approach, goals, and risks.
- Pre-operative tests such as blood work, ECG, and chest X-ray to ensure fitness for anesthesia.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin) as advised by the doctor.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the surgery as per hospital protocol.
Risks & possible complications
- Complete or partial hearing loss in the affected ear, especially with certain surgical approaches.
- Facial weakness or paralysis due to proximity of the tumor to the facial nerve.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which may require additional treatment.
- Headaches, dizziness, and balance issues during the recovery period.
- Rare risks include meningitis, stroke, or bleeding (hematoma).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial hospital stay for monitoring of neurological function, pain management, and management of any nausea or dizziness.
- Gradual mobilization with assistance; dizziness is common and improves over weeks.
- Incision care instructions to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection.
- Follow-up appointments for wound check, audiological evaluation, and possibly facial nerve assessment.
- Avoidance of strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and blowing the nose forcefully for several weeks to prevent CSF leak.
- Possible referral for vestibular rehabilitation therapy to aid with balance recovery.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-7 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; up to 6-12 months for full stabilization of symptoms like balance
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering vestibular schwannoma in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for vestibular schwannoma in India include Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Manipal Hospital Hebbal, Manipal Hospital Hebbal, KMC Hospital Mangalore, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform vestibular schwannoma. MediFyr helps you compare ent specialists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for vestibular schwannoma compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 350 Thousand – 800 Thousand | 5-7 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; up to 6-12 months for full stabilization of symptoms like balance | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 1.23 Million – 2.8 Million | 5-7 days | ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; up to 6-12 months for full stabilization of symptoms like balance | Know More |
Top hospitals for Vestibular Schwannoma in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated ent teams and experience managing patients undergoing vestibular schwannoma.
Amit Reddy, a 42-year-old software architect...
Amit Reddy, a 42-year-old software architect and father of two, first noticed a persistent ringing in his right ear six months ago. Over time, he developed subtle balance issues, feeling unsteady when turning his head quickly, and a concerning 30% hearing loss in that ear confirmed by an audiogram. His ENT, Dr. Sharma, ordered an MRI which revealed a 1.8 cm vestibular schwannoma (acoustic neuroma) on his right vestibular nerve. Dr. Sharma explained the benign but growing tumor was causing his symptoms and recommended surgical removal via a retrosigmoid approach to preserve his facial nerve function and attempt hearing preservation. Amit underwent the 8-hour surgery, waking up with significant right-sided hearing loss as anticipated, but with intact facial movement, a huge relief. His recovery involved a week in the hospital managing dizziness and imbalance with vestibular therapy. Three months later, while adapting to single-sided deafness with a CROS hearing aid, his balance has greatly improved and the tinnitus has lessened. Emotionally, he moved from initial fear for his career and family stability to gratitude for the skilled surgical team and a determined focus on rehabilitation, valuing his health and family more deeply.
ENT Specialists for Vestibular Schwannoma
Explore experienced ent specialists who regularly perform vestibular schwannoma and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 16 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 21 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
- 26 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 24 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 18 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 43 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 38 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 36 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 24 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 29 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 10 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 14 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore
- 14 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore
- 19 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune
- 26 Years Experience
- ENT Specialist
Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Bangalore