Neuromas of the facial nerve

Forty-eight patients with facial nerve neuromas were treated at the Otologic Medical Group Inc. between 1974 and 1985. The most common presenting symptoms were hearing loss and tinnitus. Facial paralysis occurred in 22 patients (46%). A mass behind the tympanic membrane was seen on otoscopy in 14 patients (29%). These tumors typically involved more than one segment of the nerve and eroded otic capsule bone in 14 patients (29%). High resolution computed tomography (CT) was highly accurate in determining the extent and location of these tumors. Restoration of the continuity of the nerve was undertaken at the time of tumor removal. The major determinant of the ultimate status of facial nerve function was the duration of preoperative paralysis.