Vestibular Schwannoma — Microsurgical Removal in Noida

Yes. Vestibular schwannoma and acoustic neuroma are the same tumour — different names for the same benign tumour arising from the Schwann cells of the vestibular division of the eighth cranial nerve. 'Acoustic neuroma' is the traditional common name; 'vestibular schwannoma' is the more anatomically accurate term.

Hearing preservation during microsurgery is attempted using the retrosigmoid or middle fossa approach (not the translabyrinthine approach, which sacrifices residual hearing). Hearing preservation is more likely when tumour is small, intracanalicular, and pre-operative hearing is good (Gardener-Robertson Class I–II). Even with preservation intent, hearing can deteriorate due to surgical manipulation. Dr. Vaish along with his team discusses hearing outcomes specific to each patient's tumour and baseline hearing at consultation.

Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery delivers precise, high-dose radiation to the tumour in a single session (or fewer sessions than conventional radiotherapy). It does not remove the tumour but halts growth in approximately 95% of small to medium schwannomas (under 3 cm). It preserves facial nerve function in over 97% of cases. Hearing preservation rates are 50–70% at 5 years. Dr. Anil Dhar trained in stereotactic radiosurgery plans treatment and radiation dose based on clinical symptoms and radiological findings and optimizes treatment accordingly.

There is no fixed size threshold for surgery — the decision depends on growth rate, symptoms, patient age, and tumour location. Small tumours (under 1.5–2 cm) with no or mild symptoms can often be observed. Tumours causing brainstem compression, cerebellar compression, or hydrocephalus require surgery regardless of size. Dr. Bundela and Dr. Vaish tailors the recommendation to each patient's individual tumour and circumstances