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Vestibular Schwannoma

A vestibular schwannoma, also known as an acoustic neuroma, is a benign tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. These tumors can affect balance, hearing, and facial nerve function.

Treatment strategies are determined individually and depend on factors such as tumor size, growth pattern, symptoms, and the patient’s overall health. Options may include careful monitoring, microsurgical removal, or targeted radiation therapy such as Gamma Knife radiosurgery. This non-invasive technique delivers highly focused radiation to the tumor, aiming to control its growth while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy tissue.

Symptoms may vary depending on tumor size and location, and often develop gradually:

  • Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Imbalance or dizziness
  • Facial numbness or weakness
  • Headaches
  • Ear fullness or pressure

Diagnosis typically involves detailed imaging and functional assessments:

  • MRI of the brain and internal auditory canal
  • Audiometric tests to evaluate hearing function
  • Vestibular (balance) testing
  • Neurological and cranial nerve examinations

This ensures accurate diagnosis and precise treatment planning.

Treatment depends on tumor characteristics and patient factors:

  • Microsurgical removal: Traditional surgery to excise the tumor while preserving nerve function
  • Gamma Knife radiosurgery: Non-invasive, highly precise radiation therapy targeting the tumor
  • Multidisciplinary care: Collaboration with neurosurgeons, ENT specialists, audiologists, and radiologists for optimal outcomes

Follow-up includes imaging and functional assessments to monitor tumor control and nerve function preservation.

Ear, nose and throat diseases (ENT)

Patients treated at Karolinska are often the first to benefit from the latest technologies and therapies. ENT

Neurosurgery

Pioneers in modern neurosurgery with extensive collaborations worldwide. Neurosurgery
Medical doctors performing surgery.
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Ear and Hearing Center
Offering a complete ear and hearing care package from a multi-professional team.
Image of the gamma knife at Karolinska, Solna.
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Gamma Knife
Since the invention of the Gamma Knife at Karolinska in the 1960s, we are the only hospital in the world with more than 50 years of experience treating patients with the device.