C2 dumbbell-shaped peripheral nerve sheath tumors: surgical management and relationship with venous structures

Upper cervical nerve peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) include schwannomas and neurofibromas and arise mainly from the second cervical (C2) root [1,2]. C2 PNSTs can grow to a large size while remaining asymptomatic and extend via the intervertebral foramina to achieve a dumbbell shape [1,2]. C2 PNSTs have specific characteristics, such as multiplicity, a dumbbell shape, a relationship with the vertebral artery (VA), and particular associated surgical problems [1 –3]. The VA can be displaced and compressed by the extradural portion of a C2 PNST, and some authors have suggested that the VA is the main problem for total resection of the tumor [4,5].

Source: Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery - October 23, 2016 Category: Neurosurgery Authors: Zuowei Wang, Xingwen Wang, Hao Wu, Zan Chen, Qingguo Yuan, Fengzeng Jian Source Type: research