What Is an Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)?

An acoustic neuroma is a type of schwannoma, a tumor that grows within Schwann cells, which form the protective layer around certain types of nerves. Schwannomas can develop in the brain or spinal cord and are usually benign (noncancerous).

Acoustic neuromas develop in and on the eighth cranial nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. Also known as a vestibular schwannoma, acoustic neuromas are usually benign and grow slowly.

Acoustic Neuroma: Why Choose Us?

Our neurosurgeons, otologists, radiation oncologists and other neurology specialists have board certifications and fellowship training in a wide range of neurology and brain cancer subspecialties. Our expertise includes:

Leading Treatments

At Stanford, our expert neurologists use a completely noninvasive procedure—CyberKnife, a robotic radiosurgery—to deliver targeted radiation. Because we can focus the radiation directly on the tumor, it preserves nearby, healthy brain tissue. Learn more about treatments.

Expertise

Our highly skilled neurological specialists lead our care teams of neuro-certified nurses and other clinicians to bring you the latest, most advanced care practices for acoustic neuroma. Our neurosurgeons, otologists and radiation oncologists have more experience using CyberKnife to treat brain tumors than any other facility in the world. Meet your care team.

Patient-Centered Care

When you choose the Stanford Brain Tumor Center for your treatment, we coordinate your care in each of our three locations. In one visit, you can schedule multiple appointments with our brain tumor experts from many neurology and brain cancer disciplines, who collaborate for your care.