Recurrence of acoustic neuroma after incomplete resection.

Objective: To determine the risk of recurrent tumor in patients after incomplete resection of acoustic neuroma.

Study design: Retrospective case review.

Setting: A tertiary referral center.

Patients: Thirty-nine patients were identified who underwent incomplete resection of acoustic neuroma between January 1988 and December 1993, and had a minimum follow-up of 3.5 years, at a mean of 6.2 years (range 3.5-10.2 years).

Intervention: Regular follow-up. using either computed axial tomography or magnetic resonance imaging yearly.

Main outcome measures: Growth of residual tumor as determined by the increase in its greatest dimension on follow-up imaging studies and the necessity for additional treatment.

Results: Tumor regrowth occurred in 17 patients (44%). Ten patients (26%) required additional treatment during the follow-up period.

Conclusion: This study suggests that incomplete resection of acoustic neuroma is associated with a significant risk of recurrent tumor requiring subsequent intervention.