[The diagnosis and treatment of facial nerve schwannoma].
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the diagnosis and treatment of facial nerve (FN) schwannomas.


METHODS
Two cases of FN schwannoma between 2002 and 2004 in Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital were reviewed.


RESULTS
Both cases were diagnosed during operation.


CONCLUSIONS
Because of its rarity and various presentations, facial nerve schwannoma is difficult to diagnose. In addition of the common presenting symptoms and physical examination, radiographic studies can delineate the erosion area and the relationship with surrounding tissues. These studies are essential for preoperative planning. The main factors that influence on the recovery of facial nerve function after operation are the preoperative presence of facial nerve deficit and its duration. If the facial nerve deficit lasts over one year, the recovery of facial nerve function will be worse. However, the location and the preoperative grading of facial nerve function has nothing with the recovery.
Chen
Gang
G
Department of Otolaryngology and Hearing Test Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200233, China.
Zhang
Shenglan
S
Wu
Yaqin
Y
Yin
Shankai
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003390:Cranial Nerve Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D005154:Facial Nerve; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009442:Neurilemmoma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome