Optimal Surgical Approach for the Dumbbell-Shaped Trigeminal Schwannoma

J Craniofac Surg. 2021 Nov-Dec;32(8):e710-e712. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000007701.

Abstract

Dumbbell-shaped trigeminal schwannoma afflicts the middle and posterior cranial fossa. Surgical approach for gross total resection remains highly challenging. The authors present a case of dumbbell-shaped trigeminal schwannoma treated successfully by using frontotemporal intradural approach with the removal of temporal pole. Subtotal resection was achieved as the schwannoma was closely adhered to trigeminal nerve. As a postoperative complication, abducens paralysis recovered significantly within the 3-month follow-up. No severe complication was observed. The authors suggest that frontotemporal intradural approach is optimal surgical approach as it is particularly convenient and safe.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cranial Fossa, Posterior
  • Cranial Nerve Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Cranial Nerve Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neurilemmoma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Neurilemmoma* / surgery
  • Trigeminal Nerve / surgery
  • Trigeminal Nerve Diseases* / surgery