A literature review on surgery for cervical vagal schwannomas

作者：Cavallaro Giuseppe^*; Pattaro Giada; Iorio Olga; Avallone Marcello; Silecchia Gianfranco

来源：World Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2015, 13(1): 130.

DOI：10.1186/s12957-015-0541-6

• Schwannoma
• Vagal nerve tumor
• Cervical schwannoma
• Vagus

Cervical vagal schwannoma is a benign, slow-growing mass, often asymptomatic, with a very low lifetime risk of malignant transformation in general population, but diagnosis is still a challenge. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice even if its close relationship with nerve fibres, from which it arises, threats vagal nerve preservation. We present a case report and a systematic review of literature. All studies on surgical resection of cervical vagal schwannoma have been reviewed. Papers matching the inclusion criteria (topic on surgical removal of cervical vagal schwannoma, English language, full text available) were selected. Fifty-three patients with vagal neck schwannoma submitted to surgery were identified among 22 studies selected. Female/male ratio was 1.5 and median age 44 years. Median diameter was 5 cm (range 2 to 10). Most schwannoma were asymptomatic (68.2%) and received an intracapsular excision (64.9%). Postoperative symptoms were reported in 22.6% of patients. Cervical vagal schwannoma is a benign pathology requiring surgical excision, but frequently postoperative complications can affect patients lifelong, so, surgical indications should be based carefully on the balance between risks and benefits.

• 出版日期2015-3-29