How long does stereotactic radiosurgery take to work for acoustic neuroma?

The radiation is precisely aimed at the acoustic neuroma to stop its cells from continuing to grow. The change is biological and unfolds gradually; the neuroma may remain visible on scans even when treatment is controlling it.

Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging helps the care team compare the treated area with earlier images. Temporary swelling can affect symptoms or scan appearance, so one result is interpreted alongside your hearing, balance, facial movement and other findings.

Acoustic neuroma is also called vestibular schwannoma. The location beside nerves involved in hearing and balance means the team weighs tumour control against possible effects on those functions.

Keep the imaging and clinic appointments arranged by your radiation or neurosurgical team. Bring a record of changes in hearing, ringing in the ear, dizziness, imbalance, facial sensation or facial movement.

Take medicines exactly as prescribed, particularly if steroids or anti-sickness treatment are provided. Do not stop a steroid suddenly unless the prescriber gives you a tapering plan.

Ask when the first scan is expected and which symptoms should prompt a call before that visit. Recovery and symptom change do not always follow the same pace as scan change.

Contact your treatment team promptly for worsening balance, new facial weakness, a marked change in hearing, repeated vomiting or a headache that is new or escalating.

Seek emergency help for a seizure, collapse, severe confusion, sudden weakness, trouble speaking or difficulty staying awake. These symptoms need urgent assessment and should not wait for a planned scan.

What result will you use to judge that the acoustic neuroma is controlled?

When should my next scan and hearing assessment take place?

Which changes in balance, hearing or facial movement should I report immediately?