Roentgenographic diagnosis of acoustic neurinoma

This article reviews the roentgenographic studies performed in 131 patients who had surgically confirmed acoustic neurinomas. In this 5-year study (1978-1982), all patients had computed tomography (CT) and 82% had petrous apex tomography. Approximately 18% of patients underwent angiography, and 18% had positive contrast rhombencephalography. The diagnostic capability with CT scanning has improved remarkably. There were no false-negative results for scans obtained in 1981 and 1982. At the same time the accuracy of other radiographic and audiometric tests was decreasing. The proportion of small tumors diagnosed has increased 200%, with a corresponding decrease in medium and large tumors. Tumors can be diagnosed at an earlier stage; and, because of this, surgical results have improved. No surgical mortality occurred in this series, preservation of the facial nerve was excellent, and in some patients cochlear function was maintained.