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What is Schwannoma?

A schwannoma is a type of tumor that arises from Schwann cells found in the nerve roots or peripheral nervous system. They typically grow slowly and are benign. Vestibular schwannomas, which develop in an inner ear nerve, are the most prevalent kind.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

In addition to minimizing potential complications by treating the tumor while it is still small and before it causes significant damage or symptoms, early treatment of a schwannoma is essential because it allows for better preservation of function in the affected area, especially when the tumor is near vital nerves like those responsible for hearing and balance.

What are the Common Symptoms of Schwannoma?

  • Constant or sporadic pain at the tumor's location (however not all schwannomas are painful)
  • Tingling and numbness in the damaged nerve's vicinity
  • Loss of feeling in the damaged nerve's vicinity
  • Weakened muscles or altered reflexes
  • Lightheadedness or issues with balance.

Causes and Risk Factors of Schwannoma

Causes

Most of the time, the cause of schwannomas is unknown. About 90% of cases happen infrequently, or at random.

Schwannomatosis, neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2), and Carney complex are examples of genetic illnesses that can result in schwannomas. According to genetic research, the NF2 gene on chromosome 22 is crucial for the formation of schwannoma.

Risk Factors

This procedure carries the risks of bleeding, infection, and anesthesia-related side effects. Additionally, there is a chance of nerve injury, which could result in paralysis, numbness, or weakening in the afflicted area. Under the supervision of a skilled neurosurgeon, these side effects are uncommon. You will have a detailed discussion with your neurosurgeon about these risks and the steps being taken to reduce them.

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Schwannoma Prevention Tips

Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid schwannomas. Most of the time, they occur at random for unclear causes. Certain genetic factors that increase your risk of developing specific tumor types are linked to about 10% of instances.

Treatment options for Schwannoma

Stereotactic Radio Therapy: To eradicate tumors, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) employs many laser beams that are carefully focused. To avoid potential difficulties, your doctor could suggest SRS rather than surgery if the tumor is close to important blood vessels or nerves.


Cost Start From USD 3000 - USD 7000Explore Options

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: Brain stereotactic radiosurgery is another name for gamma knife radiosurgery. Since there is no incision made into the brain tissue, it is not surgery in the conventional sense. About 200 beams of focused radiation are directed straight at the vestibular schwannoma using specialized equipment. Because the radiation is precisely directed to the place where the rays converge, it has little influence on the other parts of the brain. The first-line treatment for tiny or medium-sized vestibular schwannomas is now Gamma Knife radiosurgery. According to one study, it is a safe and efficient therapeutic method that effectively cures vestibular schwannoma by stopping or shrinking the tumor in 97.1% of instances. Gamma knife radiosurgery is an outpatient procedure that can be done the same day, and most patients have either no side effects or very minor ones. Gamma Knife radiosurgery has two key advantages: it is almost painless, and the patient can resume their pre-treatment activities shortly after the procedure.


Cost Start From USD 7000 - USD 10000Explore Options

The following imaging studies can be used to diagnose a schwannoma:

  • MRI: A big magnet, radio waves, and a computer are used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a painless procedure that creates obvious pictures of the organs and structures inside your body. This imaging test is recommended to identify and diagnose schwannomas.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan creates images of the internal components of your body using computers and X-rays.
  • Ultrasound: Ultrasound produces live images or films of internal organs or other soft tissues by using high-frequency sound waves. Medical professionals can use ultrasound to find schwannomas beneath your skin.
  • Nutritional Counseling: Diet plans to reduce inflammation and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Personalized Therapy Plans: Individually tailored treatments for pain management and enhanced mobility.
  • Rehabilitation post Surgery: physiotherapy sessions focused on restoring joint function and strength.
  • Nutrition Guidance: Customized dietary plan for reducing inflammation and maintaining a healthy weight for overall recovery.

Healthcare professionals may suggest medications that treat nerve pain.

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Hospitals for Schwannoma in Thailand

Phyathai 2 International Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Phyathai 2 International Hospital

Bangkok, Thailand

Phyathai 2 International Hospital located in Bangkok, Thailand is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Fully equipped rooms are available for convenience of the patients- Gold B Room, Gold A Room, Pediatric Gold A, Platinum room, and Prestige ward
  • Nearby accommodations are also available- Abloom Service Apartments, Bangkok Patio, VIB Best Western Sanam Pao, VIC3 Hotel
  • Operating room
  • International Patient Medical Center to assist overseas patients
Asia clinic thonglor : Top Doctors, and Reviews
Asia clinic thonglor

Bangkok, Thailand

  • A wide range of services in cosmetic surgery, skincare, wellness, and weight control.
  • Experienced doctors and specialists with medical licenses and expert training.
  • Use of trusted, approved products and techniques that meet global safety standards.
  • Non-surgical beauty options include facial lifting, wrinkle care, and skin treatments.
  • Health screening packages that check for hormones, allergies, and early signs of disease.
  • Private recovery rooms are designed for comfort and relaxation after treatments.
  • Additional conveniences include a café, free Wi-Fi, and clean, modern surroundings.
  • Friendly staff who speak Thai, English, and Turkish for easier communication.
  • A central location inside Marché Thonglor, a well-known health and lifestyle complex.
  • Services for adults only, with about 1,500 people visiting each year.
Bangpakok 9 International Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Bangpakok 9 International Hospital

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangpakok 9 International Hospital located in Bangkok, Thailand is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • It would be prudent to summarise the Medical Services provided at the Bangpakok 9 International Hospital (BPK 9), Bangkok, Thailand:
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
  • Dental Implants
  • Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
  • Exercise Stress Test
  • Health Screening
  • Laser Vagina Firming
  • Pediatric Physical Therapy
  • Perfect Slim by Vela II
  • Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal
  • Prosthodontics
  • The Medical Services are also inclusive of the International Patient Services such as the ones listed here:
  • Thai, English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Myanmar, Cambodia, Bangladeshi, Bahasa and Tagalog are the languages in which there are Translation services available for International Patients.
  • Visa extension related assistance
  • International health insurance related assistance
  • Embassy and international organizations related assistance
  • A variety of meals of choice for International Patients
  • Email consultation services
  • Transfer to either airport and/or hotels
  • Prayer room
  • Four different types of rooms are available such as Deluxe room, two kinds of suites, and a VIP suite.
  • Hospital facilities like The Coffee shop, Food Hall, Cafe and Medical Spa.
  • Complete health and safety protocols are maintained in the various Medical Centers some of whom are as follows:
  • Aesthetic Center
  • 24 Hour Emergency Center
  • Allergy Center
  • Breast Center
  • bSmart Center
  • Checkup Center
  • Dental Center,
  • Happy Long Life Center
  • Medical Fitness Center
  • Psychiatric Center
  • Rehabilitation Center
  • Sleep Disorders Center

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Why Choose Thailand for Schwannomas Treatment?

Here are some of the reasons for choosing Thailand:

  • Due to advancements in medical facilities, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques and immunosuppression therapy.
  • World-class experts include highly experienced doctors, JCI, accredited healthcare institutions.
  • Compared to other countries, treatment in Thailand hospitals is cost-effective.
  • Thailand hospitals provide international patient services, including a multilingual support system.
  • Improved treatment methods and biological therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is treatable, yes. Schwannoma are usually not malignant, but if left untreated, they can develop and become more problematic. Some schwannomas can be removed without causing any damage to the surrounding nerve tissue, but if your tumor is large or deeply implanted, more surgery might be necessary.

The nation's healthcare institutions offer top-notch treatment alternatives, guaranteeing successful outcomes for many patients. Depending on the location and size of the tumor, treatment for Schwannomas in Thailand is thought to be effective, with surgical options like microsurgery and minimally invasive Gamma Knife radiosurgery, especially for smaller tumors, allowing for good tumor control and preservation of important functions like hearing. To get the best results, it's imperative to seek treatment at a medical center with experienced neurosurgeons.

Yes, many Thailand hospitals offer the following for Schwannoma treatment:

  • Advanced diagnostic tools like MRI, CT scan, electromyography, and PET scan for accurate Schwannoma
  • Skilled neurologist and surgeons for Schwannoma treatment.
  • Advanced gamma knife radiation therapy
  • Comprehensive post-surgery care and rehabilitation for long-term health benefit

Always consider the following factors when selecting Thailand hospitals:

  • Hospitals that are accredited (authorised by JCI).
  • Patient reviews and success rates.
  • Hospitals that provide seamless care to patients from abroad.

The evidence that is currently available indicates that the success rate for treating Schwannoma in Thailand is high, especially for vestibular schwannomas treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Studies have reported success rates ranging from 78.2% to 86.9%..

Depending on where the tumor is located, a doctor will probably perform a physical examination, order imaging tests like an MRI scan, and possibly perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. If your child has a schwannoma, you should look for symptoms such as a painless or painful lump that grows slowly, numbness or tingling in a specific area, one-sided hearing loss, dizziness, facial weakness, or pain.

Depending on the tumor's location, size, and treatment, a patient may experience long-term effects from a schwannoma such as tinnitus (ear ringing), balance issues, facial weakness or numbness, persistent hearing loss, and occasionally even trouble swallowing or moving their eye. However, most schwannomas are benign and slow-growing, so if they are properly diagnosed and treated, they rarely have a significant impact on life expectancy.

Providing a supportive environment, managing symptoms with medication and therapies as directed by the doctor, closely monitoring the child's seizures, seeking specialized care such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and being ready for any necessary surgical procedures, such as a hemispherectomy, are all part of caring for a child with Rasmussen's Encephalitis. Always check with your child's medical team for the best course of action.