Objective: The aim of this review was to assess and describe the pathological characteristics of intraparotid facial nerve schwannoma, in order to facilitate correct prognostic evaluation and appropriate therapeutic decision making.
Study design and setting: The literature was reviewed regarding involvement of the various portions of the facial nerve. A classification is proposed, based on anatomical and pathological evaluations, which can supply important information on facial functional outcomes.
Results: From this study, two important characteristics of facial nerve schwannoma emerged: the schwannoma may be capable of surgical dissection from the facial nerve, leaving the latter anatomically preserved; or it may be tightly bound to the nerve, in which case it must be removed along with a variable section of nerve tract, followed by reconstruction.
Conclusions: The extent of the neoplasm and the involvement of different branches of the facial nerve are very important elements to consider when evaluating prognosis and therapy.
Significance: To emphasise the usefulness of a classification, based on anatomical and pathological evaluation, which can supply information about post-operative facial function.