What is appropriate followup duration after treatment for an acoustic neuroma?
The textbook "Shaped Beam Radiosurgery" recommends MRI q 6 months x 2 years, then annually through year 5. "UpToDate" recommends annual MRIs through 10 yrs, then q 2 years.
Answer from: Radiation Oncologist at Academic Institution
Annual follow up is appropriate for most patients, and q6m MRI may not be necessary. If possible, long term follow up of 10 year or longer is prefered.
The local control of acoustic neuroma with radiation treatment (SRS or FSRT) is excellent. Most series reported long term control of 95% or h...
Answer from: Radiation Oncologist at Academic Institution
Follow up every 6 months for the first year, then annually after that is reasonable. While local control is excellent, long term effects including hearing loss, imbalance, and other quality of life issues need to managed.