ANA Discussion Forum

Post-Treatment => Facial Issues => Topic started by: Xign on December 17, 2015, 12:14:55 pm

Title: Facial Paralysis 6 years after Gamma Knife
Post by: Xign on December 17, 2015, 12:14:55 pm
Hey all,

I had Gamma Knife in 2009 on a 3.7cm (widest point) acoustic neuroma. I have NF2. My hearing was still very good in that ear hence why Gamma Knife was preferred over surgery. Since then the tumour has shrunk to 2.2cm (widest point) and is necrotic. So success.

Anyway in October I started to develop facial weakness suddenly over 24 hours with severe earache. The doctor I saw said it was Bells Palsy and prescribed steroids. I then when back to my specialist NF2 hospital, and the doctor order a CT scan. The results of which was no change on the Accoustic Neuroma and severe swelling to the facial nerve. Since Octover I've seen a steady recovery of my face functions.

However this morning I woke up and I feel a bit under the weather, I looked in the mirror and my face seems weaker again, for example I can't smile as wide on the affected side, and I can't move the nostril.

My doctor did say because of the Gamma Knifed Accoustic neuroma and the swelling of the facial nerve odd things may happen, when I see him next he wants to discuss removing my mastoid bone in that ear to free up space.

Bit of a long shot but has anyone here experienced similar? There's very little online regarding Bell's palsy with an existing Accoustic neuroma.
Title: Re: Facial Paralysis 6 years after Gamma Knife
Post by: nancyann on January 15, 2016, 06:58:27 pm
I didn't have radiation, had surgery, but I just read your post & I'm hoping your face is recovering.  Keep a peaceful heart, best wishes...