Transoral laser resection of a large schwannoma in the retropharyngeal space

Abstract

Schwannomais a benign slow-growing encapsulated nerve sheath tumor composed of Schwann cells in a collagenous matrix. That can arise from any cranial, peripheral, or autonomic nerve in the body. Approximately 25% 45% of all schwannomas occur in the head and neck, and most of these are found in the parapharyngeal space [1,2]. The retropharyngeal space only contains fat and the retropharyngeal lymph nodes; therefore, metastatic nodes from primary head and neck cancers account for the majority of tumor lesions in the retropharyngeal space. Primary tumors originating from the retropharyngeal space are rare; retropharyngeal lipoma, neuroblastoma, and pleomorphic adenoma have been reported only sporadically, therefore, the existence of schwannoma in the retropharyngealspace is infrequent [3]. Transcervical approach is used for complete enbloc removal of retropharyngeal tumor traditionally. However, neurogenic injury, unfavorable scars, loss of function, etc. are potential post-operative sequelae. The use of laser applications in otorhinolaryngology has undergone signi icant advances over Abstract