A Large Residual Vestibular Schwannoma Following Incomplete Resection: A Case Report With Literature Review

Abstract

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs), also known as acoustic neuromas, are benign, slow-growing tumors. If not detected early or treated appropriately, these tumors can lead to complications such as pressure on adjacent intracranial structures that can affect vital functions. The present report discusses a rare case of a residual VS in a 46-year-old female patient. The patient was a known case of left-sided VS who underwent partial excision of the tumor four years ago and had complete hearing loss on the left side since then. She reported to the clinic with progressive headaches and imbalance while walking. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a large left residual VS compressing the brainstem and cerebellum, which was completely excised, and the patient did well postoperatively. Incomplete resection of VS carries a significant risk of tumor regrowth, necessitating the importance of complete resection with periodic follow-ups.