Session IV: Evaluation of Preoperative Symptoms and Postoperative Complications

Abstract

Advances in diagnostic neuroimaging and microsurgical technical skills have facilitated accurate and safe operative management of acoustic neuromas. Currently, total tumor removal can be achieved in most cases, with negligible mortality and morbidity. However, some of the general surgical complications, such as wound infection, cerebiospinal fluid (CSF) leak, or meningitis, may occur, as may worsening of preoperative symptoms. There was singificant discussion at the international consensus meeting about evaluating and assessing the degree of preoperative symptoms and postoperative complications. A method to evaluate preoperative symptoms and postoperative sequelae other than hearing deficits and facial nerve weakness is presented in this chapter.