Current management of head and neck schwannomas.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this review is to discuss the contemporary management of head and neck schwannomas by reviewing the literature and presenting the authors' experience.


RESULTS
Molecular studies are attempting to link genetic factors to the development of nerve sheath tumors. Many studies emphasize the importance of preserving the nerve of origin, but structural preservation may not necessarily lead to the preservation of its functional integrity. The importance of neural reconstruction and postoperative rehabilitation is also emphasized.


CONCLUSIONS
Head and neck schwannomas are uncommon tumors that may affect any peripheral, cranial, or autonomic nerve. This explains their variation in terms of location, clinical presentation, and outcome after surgical resection. History, physical examination, fine needle aspiration, and magnetic resonance imaging are used as diagnostic modalities. Cure entails a complete resection, all attempts being made to preserve the nerve of origin. Otherwise, immediate reconstruction and postoperative rehabilitation should be undertaken in the context of a multidisciplinary management team.
Moukarbel
Roger V
RV
Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, the American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
Sabri
Alain N
AN
D020516:Brachial Plexus Neuropathies / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery; D003390:Cranial Nerve Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D020437:Hypoglossal Nerve Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D009442:Neurilemmoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D020433:Trigeminal Nerve Diseases / Q000601:surgery