Patients' quality of life, reported difficulties, and benefits following surgery for acoustic neuroma.

OBJECTIVES

We compared the quality of life of patients with acoustic neuroma (AN) with general population controls and other chronic illness patients. We also examined the types and significance of ongoing difficulties reported by AN patients and the types of positive benefits following their surgery.

DESIGN

A comparative questionnaire survey.

METHODS

A research questionnaire was sent to all 119 members of the Acoustic Neuroma Association of New Zealand. Responses were compared with those of matched general population controls and type 2 diabetes, recent angina, and dermatitis patients.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The questionnaire contained the SF-36, a measure of the type of difficulties following surgery, as well as a measure of illness benefits.

RESULTS

AN patients reported an impaired quality of life compared with general population controls and other chronic illness groups, but AN patients reported better physical and general health outcomes. Hearing was the most frequent reported difficulty following surgery, and this impacted most on social functioning. The majority of patients named at least one positive outcome from their illness. AN patients who had facial difficulties following surgery were less likely to report positive outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment for AN results in a significant reduction in quality of life for patients. The major effect is in the psychological area, with increased rates of emotional distress and impaired social functioning even in comparison with patients with major illnesses. However, most AN patients do report finding some benefit from their illness experience. Patients with facial weakness are at the greatest risk of a poorer psychological outcome.