Although the technical aspects of nursing care and management of acoustic neuroma patients have been discussed in literature, both the apparent and subtle neurological and psychological residuals of acoustic tumor have been largely overlooked. Long-term sequelae, unless acute, usually are not attended by the neuroscience nurse. However, nursing instruction and enhanced care while hospitalized can prepare the patient for self-care and improve final recovery. Responses of 541 members of the Acoustic Neuroma Association to a multipart questionnaire on aspects of the acoustic neuroma experience reveal the nurse plays an important role in preparing the patient for maximum recovery after hospital discharge.
Abstract Facial reanimation after acoustic neuroma excision is currently accomplished using a variety of surgical techniques. A multi‐institutional survey of patient perceptions of facial reanimation success was accomplished by mailing a questionnaire to 809 randomly selected members of the Acoustic Neuroma Association. Four hundred sixty patients who underwent 296 reanimation procedures responded. Facial to hypoglossal nerve anastomosis, tarsorrhaphy, and upper eyelid implants were most frequently performed. The patient's estimations of initial deficit, spontaneous recovery, and overall satisfaction with the reanimation procedures are discussed.
Surgical treatment of acoustic neuroma has been reviewed in the medical literature, but assessment of outcome from the patient's perspective has received little attention. The Acoustic Neuroma Association (A.N.A.) is a large organization of acoustic neuroma patients which provides information and support services. This article reports the subjective assessment of symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome as evaluated by 541 A.N.A. members. This retrospective study presents an extensive overview of the experience of acoustic neuroma patients treated at a variety of institutions, and provides a unique perspective not previously represented in the medical literature.
Abstract In 1989, the Acoustic Neuroma Association established a multisurgeon, multi‐institutional registry to collect data related to the treatment of patients with acoustic neuroma. This report analyzes information from the 1579 surgically treated patients who were entered in the registry between January 1, 1989, and February 28, 1994.