Intracapsular enucleation of cervical schwannomas via retroauricular hairline incision.

INTRODUCTION

Cervical schwannomas are rare diseases treated by complete resection, leading to potential neurological deficits. Intracapsular enucleation is an acceptable alternative to preserve the involved nerve function, but the clinical outcomes by an aesthetically pleasing approach remain unrevealed. This study evaluated functional and oncological outcomes after intracapsular enucleation of cervical schwannomas via retroauricular hairline (Roh's) incision.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective observational study included 17 patients with cervical schwannomas who underwent intracapsular enucleation to preserve the involved nerve and capsule via Roh's incision. Each patient was evaluated with any complications, nerve function, subjective satisfaction, voice and swallowing questionnaires, and local recurrence.

RESULTS

Intracapsular enucleation via the Roh's incision was successfully applied to all patients for a median operation time of 48 min. Tumours of 4.5-cm median size were removed with the minimization of injury to the nerve and sheath deflected on the surface of the tumour. Temporary and permanent paralysis of the unilateral vocal fold was found in 3 (33%) and none of 9 patients with vagal schwannomas, respectively. Horner's syndrome occurred temporarily in two of 5 (40%) patients with sympathetic chain schwannomas. Postoperative complications were minor. Subjective satisfaction of scar and facial deformity was high, and subjective voice and swallowing difficulties were minimal one year after surgery. No recurrence was found in the patients for a median follow-up of 82 months.

CONCLUSION

Intracapsular enucleation via Roh's incision is a viable treatment for cervical schwannomas with the highest functional, cosmetic, and oncological outcomes.