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Gamma knife and nerve damage
I had gamma knife in January 2023 for 3 tumors, one being a schwannoma. In November I started experiencing numbness in my face on the left side, same as schwannoma. The neurosurgeon said it happens in about 15% of patients and can take up to 2 years to resolve. I lost my hearing at that same time and my balance issues have worsened. Anyone experienced the same and have any suggestions on how to address constant dizziness and imbalance?
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Hi @cheri808, I'm sorry that you belong to that group of 15%. Here are some discussions where people have discussed related issues.
- Balance, Dizziness, Disequilibrium, Oscillopsia, etc.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/balance-dizziness-disequilibrium-oscillopsia-etc/
- balance issues with post frontal meningioma surgery
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/balance-issues-with-post-frontal-meningioma-surgery/
- Vestibular Schwannoma Hearing Loss Treatment?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/vestibular-schwannoma-hearing-loss-treatment/
Did the hearing loss worsen after treatment? Have you noticed any improvement in the facial numbness over the past 18 months since surgery?
I’m sorry that you’re having issues. I had Gamma Knife in March (my 6 month checkup is next month). Fortunately I breezed through it. A little hair loss and occasional headaches. My surgeon told me that the tumor will (swell) get bigger before it goes down in size. I’m fortunate to have an incredible team at the U of P. Best wishes.
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1 ReactionI canceled my gamma knife procedure because three neurosurgeons were against it. It depends on the location of the tumor. Mine is in the olfactory groove. Too many nerves and obstacles.
I had Gamma knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia 4 years ago. Now my right side of my mouth, my right eye and right side of my forehead are numb. Do the nerves repair themselves or is this how my face will be?
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2 ReactionsI suggest getting with your GK surgeon or neurologist to get their opinion on what is happening. I had GK three years ago but have not had a problem. Your condition needs to be looked at, it sounds like.