Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Transmodiolar Schwannoma.

Abstract

Rare and deep located tumors are surgical challenge with high morbidity. Minimal invasive techniques should be encouraged for a better outcome. Intralabyrinthine schwannoma (ILS) is a rare benign tumor that usually presents with hearing loss and tinnitus. Surgery is associated with high rate of facial paralysis and deafness. Radiosurgery is an option for tinnitus treatment, without the risk of facial paralysis. A young male patient presented with severe hearing loss and incapacitating tinnitus. Magnetic resonance revealed the presence of a small ILS. Radiosurgery was performed and obtained tinnitus control without complications and no further tumor growth. Tumor control and symptoms relief could be safely achieved through a precisely plan using Gamma Knife radiosurgery, decreasing morbidity. This is the first radiosurgical description for a transmodiolar schwannoma.