Using nimodipine to protect nerves during vestibular schwannoma surgery

Intraoperative Application of Nimodipine to the Facial and Cochlear Nerves During Vestibular Schwannoma Resection to Avoid Spasm-related Postoperative Facial Paralysis and Deafness - a Prospective Randomized Pilot Study

Phase 2 Interventional Medical University of Vienna · NCT04801953

This study is testing if using nimodipine during surgery for vestibular schwannomas can help protect the facial and hearing nerves to reduce the chances of paralysis and hearing loss afterward.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorMedical University of Vienna Academic / other
Locations1 site (Vienna)
Trial IDNCT04801953 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effects of nimodipine, a medication known for its neuroprotective properties, when applied directly to the facial and cochlear nerves during the surgical removal of vestibular schwannomas. It is a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trial aimed at determining whether nimodipine can reduce the risk of postoperative facial paralysis and hearing loss. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either nimodipine or a placebo during their surgery, with outcomes assessed postoperatively.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old with vestibular schwannomas measuring between 10 and 25 mm in diameter.

Not a fit: Patients with vestibular schwannomas smaller than 10 mm or larger than 25 mm, or those with contraindications for nimodipine, will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of facial paralysis and deafness in patients undergoing vestibular schwannoma resection.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested positive effects of nimodipine on nerve function preservation, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age \> 18a
* Vestibular schwannoma with maximum diameter of 10-25mm on MRI
* Pre-operative audiogram
* Informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication for nimodipine application
* Vestibularis schwannoma diameter \<10mm or \>25mm on MRI

Where this trial is running

Vienna

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Vestibular Schwannoma
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.