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What is Vestibular Schwannoma?

A noncancerous tumour called an Vestibular Schwannoma forms on the major nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. The vestibular nerve is the name of this nerve. Hearing and balance are directly impacted by the nerve's branches. Hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and balance issues can all be symptoms of pressure from an Vestibular Schwannoma. The Schwann cells that cover the vestibular nerve give rise to an auditory neuroma. Vestibular Schwannomas often grow slowly. On rare occasions, it could spread out rapidly and get big enough to put pressure on the brain and interfere with essential processes.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Timely treatment is important because Vestibular Schwannomas can exacerbate hearing loss and balance function even if they are not growing. Untreated Vestibular Schwannomas can result in a potentially fatal accumulation of fluid in the brain or in the compression of the brain stem and cerebellum.

What are the symptoms of Vestibular Schwannoma

Vestibular Schwannoma symptoms can take years to manifest and are frequently overlooked. The tumor's impact on the hearing and balance nerves may result in symptoms. Additionally, the tumour may exert pressure on the facial nerve, which controls face muscles, and the trigeminal nerve, which controls sensation. Vestibular Schwannomas can potentially impact brain structures or blood vessels. The likelihood of more obvious or severe symptoms may increase as the tumour grows.

The following are typical signs of an Vestibular Schwannoma:

  • Loss of hearing, typically occurring gradually over months to years. Rarely, hearing loss may occur suddenly. Usually, one side experiences hearing loss, or it is more severe on one side
  • Tinnitus in the afflicted ear (ringing in the ear)
  • Loss of equilibrium or unsteadiness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Numbness in the face and, in rare cases, loss of muscle mobility or paralysis.

Causes and Risk Factors of Tethered Vestibular Schwannoma

Causes

An issue with a gene on chromosome 22 may occasionally be the cause of auditory neuromas. The tumour suppressor protein that is normally produced by this gene aids in regulating the proliferation of the Schwann cells that coat the nerves. The reason of this gene issue is unknown to experts. Vestibular Schwannomas frequently have no recognised cause. People who have neurofibromatosis type 2, an uncommon condition, inherit this gene mutation. Tumours typically form on the hearing and balance nerves on both sides of the head in people with neurofibromatosis type 2. Bilateral vestibular schwannomas are the name given to these tumours.

Risk Factors

Having a parent with neurofibromatosis type 2, a rare genetic condition, is the sole known risk factor for auditory neuromas. However, only around 5% of occurrences of auditory neuromas are caused by neurofibromatosis type 2. Noncancerous tumours on both sides of the head's balancing nerves are a defining feature of neurofibromatosis type 2. Other nerves may also develop tumours. The term "autosomal dominant disorder" refers to neurofibromatosis type 2. This indicates that a child may get the disorder's gene from just one parent. Affected parents have a 50/50 probability of passing it on to their offspring.

Permanent side effects from an auditory neuroma could include:

  • Loss of hearing
  • Weakness and numbness in the face
  • Balance issues
  • Ear ringing
  • Sometimes the passage of cerebrospinal fluid between the brain and spinal cord is blocked by large tumours pressing on the brainstem. Hydrocephalus is the accumulation of fluid in the brain. The pressure inside the skull rises as a result.

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Vestibular Schwannoma Prevention Tips

There are presently no proven preventative methods for vestibular schwannomas because the actual cause is unknown, but early detection through routine doctor's visits is essential, particularly if you have a family history of neurofibromatosis type 2.

Treatment options for Vestibular Schwannoma

Options for treatment include

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: One non-invasive treatment option for vestibular schwannomas (also called Vestibular Schwannomas) is Gamma Knife radiosurgery, which is considered a first-line treatment for many patients with vestibular schwannomas. It is especially effective for small to medium-sized tumours and aims to stop tumour growth by delivering a focused dose of radiation without requiring a surgical incision. This procedure often preserves hearing function while managing symptoms like dizziness and hearing loss associated with the tumour


Cost Start From USD 4000 - USD 7000Explore Options

Microsurgery: Neurosurgeons can do surgery on extremely small body parts thanks to specialised tools. Vestibular Schwannomas can only be removed with this procedure

Chemotherapy: In rare instances, medical professionals may prescribe bevacizumab (Alymsys, Avastin, MVASI, Zirabeva). Children with Vestibular Schwannomas may be able to hear for longer thanks to this medication's potential to decrease tumours. The medication is also used to treat radiation necrosis, a side effect of radiation therapy


Cost Start From USD 600 - USD 700Explore Options

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy: Parts of the nerves that regulate balance may occasionally be removed during surgery. Therapy called vestibular rehabilitation helps you make up for the loss of those nerves and the functions they control.

Audiometry: A test of hearing. An audiologist, a specialist in hearing, performs this exam. One ear at a time is exposed to noises during the test. A variety of sounds with different tones are presented by the audiologist. Every time you hear the sound, you indicate. To determine whether a tone is scarcely audible, it is repeated at progressively lower levels. To test THE patient’s hearing, the audiologist could also show you different words.

MRI. To diagnose vestibular schwannoma, magnetic resonance imaging with contrast dye is typically utilized. Tumours as tiny as 1 to 2 millimetres in diameter can be found using this imaging examination. Computerised tomography (CT) can be utilised if MRI is unavailable.

MediRehab (chain of Rehab center - part of MediGence provides comprehensive rehabilitation services designed to support arthritis patients in <India>. These services include:

  • Personalized Therapy Plans: A specialised type of treatment called vestibular rehabilitation (VR) aims to address the fundamental and secondary issues brought on by vestibular diseases. The main goals of this exercise-based program are to lessen vertigo and dizziness, gaze instability, imbalance, and fall risk, as well as to address any secondary impairments brought on by vestibular disorders
  • Rehabilitation post Surgery: physiotherapy sessions focused on restoring hearing and balancing function
  • Nutrition Guidance: Consuming lean meats, avoiding red meat, and only eating chicken after the skin has been removed are all recommended for those with vestibular disorders. When it comes to milk kinds, people with vestibular disorders should go for skim milk because it is better for their health.

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Hospitals for Vestibular Schwannoma in India

MGM Healthcare: Top Doctors, and Reviews
MGM Healthcare

Chennai, India

There are a wide variety of healthcare facilities and specialized, targeted treatments provided by MGM HealthCare. Some of its most prominent services are listed below:

Institute of Heart and Lung Transplant and Mechanical Circulatory Support:  Well renowned for having the third-highest number of heart transplants in a year (102) and also the successful completion of several other transplant surgeries and cardiac surgeries.

Cardiac Sciences: They offer a variety of screening tests and facilities including Tilt Table Test, Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting, CT Angiography, Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting, Stress Echocardiogram, Cardiac Stress Test and Cardiac Catheterisation.

Obstetrics and Gynaecology: They provide all services to ensure a woman’s well-being. Some of the services offered are Menstrual Cramps Treatment, Colposcopy, Myomectomy, Vaginal Hysterectomy, Breastfeeding Support, Ovarian Cyst Removal, Menopause Management, Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), and Menorrhagia Treatment.

Orthopedics: Bilateral Knee Replacement, Total hip Replacement, and Knee Arthroscopy are all the procedures that are offered in this department.

Liver Transplantation: An exceptionally skilled team of professionals who have performed over 4,000 liver transplant surgeries and an operation theatre and ICU specifically dedicated to HBP surgery is available at the patient’s disposal.

Emergency Medicine: MGM Healthcare has a fully functioning facility dedicated to emergency medicine that operates 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. 

Oncology: The patients will be in the safe hands of well-trained medical personnel qualified in the field of oncology and specialize in procedures like Bowel resection surgery, Biopsy, Lumpectomy, Liver Resection Surgery, Lung Cancer resection surgery, Lymph Node Surgery, and Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. They also provide cancer treatments like Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, and Targeted Therapy.

Anaesthesiology and SICU: They specialize in the field of local, general and regional anesthesia and work to assist doctors during surgical procedures.

Neurosciences and Spine: The doctors in this department handle difficult procedures like Brain Tumour Surgery, Spine Reconstructive Surgery, Neuro Surgeries, and Spine Surgeries with the utmost ease and professionalism. They also have a specific area dedicated to Neuroanaesthesia and NeuroCritical Care.

Do visit the environment-friendly medical facility in Chennai and experience medical excellence.

Max Hospital, Gurgaon: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Max Hospital, Gurgaon

Gurgaon, India

  • Max Hospital Gurugram is a leading multi-speciality healthcare centre in Haryana, renowned for its advanced clinical expertise and patient-focused care.
  • Established in 2007, it is part of the trusted Max Healthcare network and has treated over 500,000 patients across 35+ specialities.
  • The hospital is equipped with modern medical technology, internationally trained doctors, and superior clinical infrastructure.
  • Known for its excellence in Cardiology, Oncology, Neurosciences, Orthopaedics, Gastroenterology, and Women & Child Care, Max Hospital is a preferred choice for both domestic and international patients seeking high-quality treatment with compassionate care.
OncoCare Cancer Centre: Top Doctors, and Reviews
OncoCare Cancer Centre

Amroha, India

Onco Care Cancer Hospital is one of the Top Cancer Treatment Centres in India focused on delivering the best and most affordable treatment for cancer patients with superior quality of care, and the latest treatment options. Chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted treatment are among the available therapies in the hospital complemented by modern technological and equipment systems.

Both oncologists, surgeons, nursing personnel as well as other staff members, all contribute to discussions and come up with individualized treatment plans for patients. Realizing that traveling abroad for treatment is a tough decision for a family, Onco Care is dedicated to research and innovation as well as trying to deliver the best care now and in the future. Their interventions are to deliver medical and emotional needs and to give ‘a home of hope’ for every individual patient.

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Why Choose India for Vestibular Schwannoma Treatment?

Here are some of the reasons for choosing India:

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Acoustic neuromas or vestibular schwannomas are rarely life threatening. When treated effectively, patients are expected to have a relatively normal life span.

The nation's healthcare institutions offer top-notch treatment alternatives, guaranteeing successful outcomes for many patients. Vestibular Schwannoma is effectively treated in India. Hearing loss that has already occurred from the tumor cannot be reversed, but the remaining hearing can be preserved in some cases. Surgical tumor removal and gamma knife radiotherapy can often address balance problems, facial numbness and other symptoms.

Yes, many Indian hospitals offer the following for Vestibular Schwannoma treatment:

  • Advanced diagnostic tools like MRI, CT scan, electromyography, and PET scan for accurate diagnoses of Vestibular Schwannoma.
  • Skilled neurologist, surgeons and therapist performing surgery and Gamma Knife radiotherapy to treat Vestibular Schwannoma.
  • Comprehensive post-surgery care and rehabilitation for long-term health benefit

Always consider the following factors when selecting Indian hospitals:

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

However, chronic, long-lasting symptoms like unsteadiness, dizziness, or spatial disorientation develop in around half of all individuals with the illness. In severe situations, a person may suffer irreversible inner ear damage or hearing loss.


Treatments options for Vestibular Schwannoma differs based on variables such as:

  • The location and size of the tumour
  • How hearing and balance are affected by the tumour
  • General health and age