Vestibular Function in Patients with Vestibular Schwannoma
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Vestibular Function in Patients with Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma)
IRAS ID
167489
Contact name
Raymond Reynolds
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 9 months, 29 days
Research summary
The vestibular system comprises of motion sensors in the skull which detect linear acceleration and rotation. Vestibular information is vital for the control of balance and eye movements.
Vestibular Schwannoma (Acoustic Neuroma) is a benign (non-cancerous) growth, or tumour located on the vestibulocochlear nerve, which is involved in hearing, control of balance and eye movements. Symptoms can include vertigo (a sensation of spinning), headaches, blurred vision, problems with limb coordination and instability which can ultimately lead to a fall. Current treatment ranges from observation, chemotherapy and, ultimately, surgical removal of the tumor. When surgery occurs the nerve is destroyed, resulting in a loss of hearing and vestibular and signals on the affected side.We intend to measure vestibular function in acoustic neuroma patients using Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS; a method used stimulate the nerve). This technique offers potential advantages over existing vestibular assesments (e.g. caloric tests) in terms of accuracy and convenience. In a 2 year prospective study, we will meausure balance and ocular responses to GVS to determine the extent of tumor progression in vestibular schwannoma patients.
REC name
West Midlands - South Birmingham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/WM/0138
Date of REC Opinion
11 May 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion