What is a Glomus tumor?

A glomus ear tumor is a benign growth in the middle ear that can cause a loss of hearing and other concerning symptoms.  Glomus tumors are usually addressed with a surgical procedure to remove the tumor through the middle ear or an incision in the skull, or they may be addressed with Gamma Knife radiosurgery, or both.

What are the Symptoms of a Glomus Tumor?

There are a number of symptoms that may appear as a result of a glomus tumor. Indications of a glomus tumor include the following:

  • Loss of hearing
  • Pulsations in the ear
  • Ear pain
  • Bleeding coming from the ear
  • Ringing sounds in the ear
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How is a Glomus Tumor Treated?

To remove a glomus tumor, a surgery is required. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. In some cases, an incision is made in the inner ear and a piece of bone is taken out, then replaced after the tumor is carefully removed. Some procedures require a window incision made in the skull, through which the tumor is removed.

A surgical microscope may be used to provide greater visibility. Depending on the size of the tumor, ear glomus tumor surgery typically ranges from four to six hours.

Gamma Knife radiosurgery may be used as the a treatment option before surgery, or as an additional treatment that can be performed to help prevent the regrowth of the tumor. Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a painless procedure that requires no incision. This treatment utilizes hundreds of highly focused radiation beams to target the glomus tumor to help slow or stop the growth of the tumor. 

About SFENTA 

SFENTA is South Florida’s premier provider of ENT care, offering patients comprehensive treatments designed to help them find lasting relief. 
What sets SFENTA apart from other ENT providers is:

Patient-Centered Care

When you visit one of our providers, nothing about your visit will be cookie-cutter. Instead, you’ll receive care that is designed to fit your specific needs and symptoms.

Continuity of Care

We believe that care is complete when all of your symptoms have been addressed and you have found continued relief.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

We’ve created a provider network with over 50 highly trained physicians to help ensure our ability to take on any ENT concern.

The Security of a Community Staple

With over 30 locations across the area, you can rest easy knowing our staff is always nearby.

Recovery After Glomus Tumor Surgery

Patients who have only Gamma Knife radiosurgery are able to return home once their treatment is complete. Patients may experience headaches and nausea for 1-2 days. After this period of time, most patients are able to return to their work or usual activities and routine. 

After surgery for glomus tumor removal, most patients will need to spend 3-4 days in the hospital to recover while they are monitored. Expect two weeks of downtime once you return home. This time is required to rest and recuperate. By 14 days after the procedure, sutures or staples will be removed.

You will be healed enough to return to work and your daily activities after about 4-6 weeks. Your surgeon will check to ensure your symptoms are improving and your balance is improving before giving you clearance for strenuous activity. 

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Who is a Candidate for Glomus Tumor Surgery?

Patients suffering from the effects of a glomus tumor are generally candidates for surgery. Candidates meet the following requirements:

  • Are in good physical health without other serious medical concerns
  • Are experiencing hearing loss, ear pain,or other symptoms
  • Have a medium or large glomus tumor
  • The glomus tumor is growing
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Why Choose SFENTA for Glomus Tumor Treatment?

South Florida ENT Associates has been providing expertise and excellence to patients for over 30 years. Our facilities and treatments are state-of-the-art, ensuring patients benefit from the best modern treatments and surgical expertise available. Our network of providers provide specialists in every ENT focus–whatever your concern, we can help address it. Call today for a consultation to find out more about glomus tumor treatment at South Florida ENT Associates.

With 37 convenient locations across the South Florida area, we’re never far away.

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