Brachial plexus schwannomas

BACKGROUND: Schwannoma is a rare tumor that can be found in the brachial plexus. Despite the fact it is benign it can cause inflammatory reaction or compression of the nerves’ fascicles causing altered muscular or sensitive performance of the upper limb. Diagnosis of Schwannoma in the brachial plexus is difficult due to confounding interpretation with other lesions, that makes important magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathological examination for a complete diagnostic assessment. Surgical treatment is challenging, but, currently, microsurgical approach using the microscope, microsurgical tools and skills allow tumor removal with an acceptable risk of injury to neurovascular structures. METHODS: In our multicenter study we reported brachial plexus Schwannoma of six patients treated by surgical excision. Medical records and MRI data of all patients were reviewed and outcomes analyzed. RESULTS: We confirm that current precise surgical techniques represent an important approach to remove Schwannomas occurring around brachial plexus. CONCLUSIONS: Schwannomas of the brachial plexus are curable lesions and the use of precise surgical techniques allows these tumors to be removed with minimal morbidity.