Acoustic Neuroma Microsurgery

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Acoustic neuroma microsurgery is surgery to remove an acoustic neuroma (AN). AN is a slow growing tumor that forms on the nerves of your ear. The nerves help control your balance and hearing.

AFTER YOU LEAVE:

Medicines:

• Antibiotics: This medicine is given to fight or prevent an infection caused by bacteria. Always take your antibiotics exactly as ordered by your primary healthcare provider. Do not stop taking your medicine unless directed by your primary healthcare provider. Never save antibiotics or take leftover antibiotics that were given to you for another illness.
  
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine may decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine can be bought with or without a doctor's order. This medicine can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your primary healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow the directions on it before using this medicine.
  
  
• Pain medicine: You may need medicine to take away or decrease pain.
  
  
  • Learn how to take your medicine. Ask what medicine and how much you should take. Be sure you know how, when, and how often to take it.
    
    
  • Do not wait until the pain is severe before you take your medicine. Tell caregivers if your pain does not decrease.
    
    
  • Pain medicine can make you dizzy or sleepy. Prevent falls by calling someone when you get out of bed or if you need help.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed. Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Follow up with your primary healthcare provider as directed:

Your primary healthcare provider may remove your stitches, order more hearing tests, or check AN growth with an MRI. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Balance therapy:

You may need to see a therapist to teach you special exercises. These exercises will help your brain adapt to the dizziness. This will help decrease your dizziness and improve your balance.

Contact your primary healthcare provider if:

• You have chills, cough, or a fever.
  
  
• You have new headaches or dizziness.
  
  
• You have new or worse hearing loss or ringing in your ears.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have a sudden severe headache.
  
  
• You have clear fluid, blood, or pus coming out of your wound, ear, or nose.
  
  
• You have fever, chills, and cannot move your neck.
  
  
• Your face becomes numb and you cannot move it.
  
  
• You have new or worsening trouble walking or staying balanced.
  
  
• You have a seizure.