ABSTRACT
Schwannomas are classified as benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors. They arise from a single nerve fascicle, displacing other fascicles with tumor expansion. Histologically, these tumors are characterized by cellular areas with palisading configurations and adjacent less cellular areas. Evaluation of a peripheral nerve sheath tumor consists of a thorough history, including family history, general and neurologic physical examination, and advanced imaging. Gross total resection with preservation of neurologic function is the ultimate goal of surgery, while utilizing established surgical principles for the resection of benign peripheral nerve tumors. The technique for schwannoma resection includes capsular incision, tumor enucleation, and sectioning of the parent fascicle under magnification. The capsule may be left behind if it is densely adherent to the parent fascicle. Image nerves at unusual sites of compression to rule out undiagnosed mass lesion with high-resolution ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging.
