At the same time, according to the doctor, more is continually being learned about the role and functions of the cerebellum, which is being found to have some cognitive functions. To establish the true nature and dimensions of any cognitive problem, a scientific study would be needed. Though this is just conjecture, it would be interesting to learn whether memory improves in correlation with balance improvement post-surgery. We are not aware of any indication that either radiosurgery or microsurgery for acoustic neuroma normally results in any permanent decrease in IQ, intelligence, or mental capacity. It would seem logical though that some minor brain damage can occur after either radiation or surgery, and this might in some percentage of cases have some cognitive effects.
Age is another thing to consider.
In fact, it is pretty certain that one becomes extremely aware of all mental functions after acoustic neuroma. A challenge for doctors then would be distinguishing pre-existing conditions that one just became aware of from conditions truly caused by acoustic neuroma or its treatment. Therefore, we recommend asking your doctors for references on any research in this area, and for their opinions of any effects you may be experiencing. Based on patient reports, whatever the cause, there is a clear potential temporary effect on short-term memory after microsurgery, and some lesser degree of mention of cognitive problems by some patients after radiation, and patients should be aware of this. But we are not aware of any scientific studies that support a significant long-term problem for any significant percentage of patients, nor of any studies at all that general intelligence is affected by any treatment.