3cm AN, is there a way to preserve hearing?

[Bougainvillea]

Hello! I was diagnosed with AN a month ago… slightly over 3cm. Currently looking for the best treatment options… I do not have any symptoms other than the right facial numbness which started back in May… no issues with hearing, tinnitus, headaches, or balance. I am leaning towards surgery but is there a way to preserve my hearing even with this size tumor? Has anyone retained hearing after the retrosigmoid? Thank you!

[rejoiceforebermore]

Hi! I have a similar issue and question as you do. I noticed a mild but persistent facial and tongue numbness on my right side last Dec and finally went to go get it checked out just two months ago. After an MRI, they found a 3cm Schwannoma and the neurosurgeon said a craniotomy was the only way for me as the tumor was big. She did mention there is a rish of hearing loss or facial muscle weakness (may cause drooping). I am also wondering if people have removed their AN and preserved their hearing and face.

[ilti_1988]

Hi both, I had my retrosigmoid surgery a month ago and my hearing and face is preserved.

The long version is: I was diagnosed with AN in June and now is a little more than a month after surgery. I feel fine, slight balance issues, wonky head almost cleared, no headache, hearing  preserved (not sure if it is a little worse than before, and also has unconsistent tinnitus) and face preserved. Before the surgery I had only diziniess while walking and unconsistent blockege of my left ear.

The idea of retrosigmoid is to preserve the hearing, though during my consultations with different surgeons I was given chances to preserve it between 30 to 80%. It depends I guess of the location, size, experience of the surgeon and others...

Wish you good luck and to keep calm!

[donjehle]

I sure love it when new people post their questions!  And I love it when new people share their experiences in answer to someone's question!  I hope the three of you will continue to post on the forums and make this place your acoustic neuroma home.

Best wishes on your journeys!
Don