Ocular complications of acoustic neuroma surgery

Aim-To analyse the risk factors involved in the development of ocular compl ications after acoustic neuroma resection, in particular corneal complicati ons and visual loss, and to identify measures that may reduce these. Methods-62 patients who underwent surgery for acoustic neuroma had a standa rdised ophthalmic examination and retrospective case note review. Results-At final review (mean 37.6 months), although 38 patients reported o cular symptoms, only 22% saw 6/12 or worse. Patients with hypoaesthetic cor neas had a higher incidence of corneal pathology (79%) than those with norm al sensation (39%). Lagophthalmos increased the incidence of corneal pathol ogy (to 80%); in those with normal closure, the incidence was only 46%. 20 patients required at least one ophthalmic surgical procedure. Conclusions After acoustic neuroma resection patients place a considerable burden on the ophthalmologist. Immediate referral postoperatively, and freq uent review of those with abnormal sensation may reduce the severity of lon g term ocular complications.