Risk Recall of Complications Associated with Vestibular Schwannoma Treatment

Abstract

Objective To assess the risk recall of complications among patients who underwent different vestibular schwannoma (VS) treatments. Study Design Patients with VS completed a voluntary and anonymous survey. Setting Survey links were distributed via the Acoustic Neuroma Association (ANA) website, Facebook, and email list. Subjects and Methods Surveys were distributed to ANA members from January to March 2017. Of the 3200 ANA members with a VS diagnosis at the time of survey distribution, 789 (25%) completed the survey. Results Subjects reported the following incidence of posttreatment complications: imbalance (60%), hearing issues (51%), dry eyes (30%), headache (29%), and facial weakness (27%). Overall, 188 (25%) recalled remembering all the risks associated with their treatment. Among those in the surgical cohort (52%) who experienced balance issues, facial weakness, cerebrospinal fluid leak, meningitis, and stroke, 73%, 91%, 77%, 67%, and 33% claimed recall of these associated risks. Among those in the radiosurgery cohort (28%) who experienced balance issues, facial weakness, and hydrocephalus, 56%, 52%, and 60% recalled discussions of those risks. Patients with higher-level education ( P = .026) and those who underwent surgery ( P = .001) had a significantly higher risk recall ratio, while sex, age, and tumor size were not significant contributing factors. Conclusion Not all patients with VS who experienced treatment complications recalled remembering those risks being discussed with them. Patients with higher education and those who underwent surgery had a better recall of risks associated with different treatment modalities. The risk recall ratio of patients experiencing complications ranged 33% to 91%, suggesting an opportunity for decision-making and discussion improvement.

The value of radiographic features in predicting postoperative facial nerve function in vestibular schwannoma patients: A retrospective study and nomogram analysis

“…Continuous acquisition of relevant data was ensured. To be included, patients needed to meet the following criteria: (1) complete medical records that include clinical, imaging, and pathological details; (2) confirmation of VS diagnosis through pathology; and (3) receiving primary surgical treatment via the retrosigmoid approach (Figure 1).…”

“…Postoperative facial paralysis after VS resection can lead to psychological issues, such as depression and social isolation, significantly impacting the quality of life. 2 Predicting the postoperative FN function preoperatively would be helpful in guiding patients and determining treatment strategies.…”

“…Facial paralysis is a common complication of surgical treatment due to the proximity of the facial nerve (FN) to the vestibular nerve. Postoperative facial paralysis after VS resection can lead to psychological issues, such as depression and social isolation, significantly impacting the quality of life 2 …”

“…Postoperative facial paralysis after VS resection can lead to psychological issues, such as depression and social isolation, significantly impacting the quality of life. 2 …”