Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic Neuroma Care at UVM Health

An acoustic neuroma, also called a vestibular schwannoma, is a benign (noncancerous) tumor that grows on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain. This nerve helps control hearing and balance.

Why Choose UVM Health?

At University of Vermont Health, we offer comprehensive testing and treatment in a supportive and caring environment to help you find relief. As part of a health system anchored by an academic medical center, our physicians collaborate across specialties — including neurosurgery and radiation oncology — to design a personalized care plan based on your symptoms, medical history and needs.

As a leading ear, nose and throat (ENT) program in the region, we provide:

Experienced team: Our board-certified otolaryngologists — head and neck surgeons — are fellowship-trained in otology (ear conditions) and neurotology (inner ear conditions), offering highly specialized expertise.
Dedicated audiologists: Our doctorate-level audiologists work closely with our otolaryngologists to deliver advanced diagnostic testing.

Acoustic Neuroma Symptoms

Symptoms often begin in one ear and may be mild at first. Common symptoms include:

Hearing loss (often gradual)
Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
Dizziness or balance problems
Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy settings

As the tumor grows, less common symptoms may include:

Facial numbness or weakness
Headaches
Vision problems
Unsteadiness or difficulty walking

If you notice ongoing changes in hearing or balance, it is important to seek medical evaluation.

Diagnosing Acoustic Neuroma

Our clinicians use several tools to diagnose acoustic neuromas, including:

Hearing tests: Audiology exams that measure hearing levels and speech understanding
Balance testing: Evaluations that assess how well the inner ear is functioning
Imaging: An MRI or CT scan to detect the tumor and determine its size and location

Acoustic Neuroma Treatment

Treatment depends on the size of the tumor, your symptoms, age and overall health. Options include:

Active surveillance: Watchful waiting with regular MRIs for stable or slow-growing tumors with mild or no symptoms
Radiation therapy: Focused radiation that stops or slows tumor growth
Surgery: Removal of the tumor, recommended based on tumor size, patient factors and symptoms

Your care team will work with you to choose a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle and helps you manage your symptoms confidently.