Acoustic Neuroma Surgery at Karthiayani Hospital: Advanced Care in Thrissur
Acoustic neuroma, also known as vestibular schwannoma, is a benign, slow-growing tumor that develops on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which is responsible for hearing and balance. While non-cancerous, an untreated acoustic neuroma can lead to significant health challenges, including progressive hearing loss, balance disorders, facial numbness, and even life-threatening pressure on nearby brain structures. Early detection and timely intervention are critical to managing this condition effectively.
Karthiayani Hospital, located at Patturaikkal Junction in Thrissur, Kerala, is a trusted healthcare institution known for its patient-first approach and advanced medical care. As one of the premier centers for ENT (ear, nose, and throat) services in Kerala, the hospital is equipped with cutting-edge technology and an expert team of professionals to treat acoustic neuroma comprehensively. This guide provides an in-depth look at acoustic neuroma surgery at Karthiayani Hospital, explaining the procedure, its benefits, and the personalized care patients can expect.
Why Choose Karthiayani Hospital for Acoustic Neuroma Surgery?
Karthiayani Hospital has become synonymous with quality healthcare in Thrissur, Kerala. It offers comprehensive ENT services and specializes in treating complex conditions like acoustic neuroma. Here are the key reasons to choose Karthiayani Hospital for acoustic neuroma surgery:
1. Experienced and Skilled Surgeons
The hospital boasts a team of highly qualified ENT surgeons who specialize in acoustic neuroma surgery. Their extensive experience in treating such conditions ensures that each patient receives the best care possible. The surgical team collaborates closely with neurologists, anesthesiologists, and audiologists to deliver successful outcomes.
2. Advanced Medical Technology
Karthiayani Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical tools, including high-resolution MRI and CT scanners, advanced surgical microscopes, and neuronavigation systems. These tools ensure precision in tumor removal while minimizing risks to surrounding nerves and brain tissue.
3. Patient-Centered Care
From the initial consultation to post-operative care, the hospital prioritizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique condition and needs. A dedicated care team ensures that patients are well-informed, comfortable, and supported throughout their journey.
4. Multi-Disciplinary Approach
Acoustic neuroma treatment at Karthiayani Hospital involves a collaborative approach. ENT specialists, neurologists, audiologists, and physiotherapists work together to provide comprehensive care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.
5. Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services
Post-operative care is an integral part of recovery at Karthiayani Hospital. The hospital offers specialized rehabilitation services, including balance therapy, hearing rehabilitation, and psychological support, ensuring patients regain their quality of life as quickly as possible.
Understanding Acoustic Neuroma Surgery
What is Acoustic Neuroma Surgery?
Acoustic neuroma surgery is a delicate procedure aimed at removing the tumor from the vestibulocochlear nerve while preserving surrounding structures. The primary goals of the surgery are to alleviate symptoms, prevent further complications, and restore the patient’s quality of life. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and involves meticulous planning to ensure minimal impact on nearby nerves and tissues.
Types of Acoustic Neuroma Surgery
The choice of surgical approach depends on several factors, including the tumor’s size, location, and the patient’s hearing status. At Karthiayani Hospital, the following approaches are commonly used:
1. Retrosigmoid Approach
- Description: This approach involves making an incision behind the ear and removing a portion of the skull to access the tumor.
- Advantages: It is suitable for tumors of any size and allows the surgeon to preserve hearing in some cases.
- Considerations: Patients may experience temporary balance issues post-surgery.
2. Translabyrinthine Approach
- Description: This approach involves accessing the tumor through the inner ear. It is often recommended for patients who have already lost significant hearing.
- Advantages: Provides direct access to the tumor and minimizes risks to surrounding brain tissue.
- Considerations: Patients will experience total hearing loss in the operated ear.
3. Middle Fossa Approach
- Description: An incision is made above the ear to access small tumors, especially in patients with good preoperative hearing.
- Advantages: This technique focuses on preserving hearing.
- Considerations: It is ideal for small tumors located near the internal auditory canal.
The Surgical Process
1. Pre-Operative Preparation
- Comprehensive Diagnostics: Patients undergo detailed diagnostic tests, including MRI scans, CT scans, and audiometry, to determine the size and location of the tumor.
- Patient Counseling: Surgeons and care teams discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes with patients and their families.
- Anesthesia Evaluation: Patients meet with an anesthesiologist to ensure they are fit for surgery.
2. Surgery
- Tumor Removal: The surgeon carefully removes the tumor using the chosen approach. Advanced tools, such as surgical microscopes and neuronavigation systems, help ensure precision.
- Nerve Preservation: Efforts are made to preserve the facial and auditory nerves during surgery.
3. Post-Operative Care
- Close Monitoring: Patients are monitored in the ICU immediately after surgery to detect and address any complications.
- Pain Management: Adequate pain relief is provided to ensure patient comfort.
Post-Surgical Recovery
Recovery times vary depending on the surgical approach and the patient’s overall health. At Karthiayani Hospital, post-operative care focuses on holistic recovery:
1. Physical Therapy
- Specialized balance training helps patients overcome dizziness and improve coordination.
2. Hearing Rehabilitation
- Patients with hearing loss may benefit from hearing aids or cochlear implants.
3. Psychological Support
- Counseling services are available to help patients and families cope with the emotional aspects of recovery.
4. Follow-Up Appointments
- Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, assess hearing and balance, and address any concerns.
Risks and Complications
While acoustic neuroma surgery is generally safe, it carries potential risks, including:
- Hearing loss on the operated side.
- Temporary or permanent facial nerve weakness.
- Dizziness or balance issues.
- Cerebrospinal fluid leakage (rare).
- Risk of infection.
The skilled team at Karthiayani Hospital takes every precaution to minimize these risks. Advanced surgical techniques, meticulous planning, and comprehensive post-operative care contribute to better outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Contact Karthiayani Hospital
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of acoustic neuroma, don’t wait to seek help. Karthiayani Hospital offers expert care and advanced treatment for this condition. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
- Address: Parakkote Lane, Patturaikkal Junction, Thrissur, Kerala 680022
- Phone: +91-9846334435
- Email: karthiayanihospital@gmail.com
FAQs
- What is acoustic neuroma?
- Acoustic neuroma is a benign tumor on the vestibulocochlear nerve, affecting hearing and balance.
- What are the symptoms of acoustic neuroma?
- Common symptoms include hearing loss, tinnitus, balance issues, and facial numbness.
- How is acoustic neuroma diagnosed?
- Diagnosis involves MRI and CT scans, along with hearing and balance tests.
- Is acoustic neuroma life-threatening?
- While not cancerous, untreated tumors can grow and cause serious complications.
- What surgical options are available for acoustic neuroma?
- Surgical options include retrosigmoid, translabyrinthine, and middle fossa approaches.
- How long does recovery take?
- Recovery varies but generally takes several weeks, with regular follow-up care.
- What are the risks of acoustic neuroma surgery?
- Risks include hearing loss, balance problems, and potential facial nerve weakness.
- Can hearing be preserved after surgery?
- Hearing preservation depends on the tumor’s size and location.
- Why choose Karthiayani Hospital for this surgery?
- We offer expert surgeons, advanced technology, and personalized care.
- How do I book an appointment?
- You can contact us at +91-9846334435 or visit our hospital at Patturaikkal Junction, Thrissur.