Yogesh R. Jaiswal, Nitin Mokal, Vinay Jacob, Surgical Outcome of Isolated Benign Sporadic Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors, Research Journal of Medical Sciences, Volume 18,Issue 10, 2024, Pages 643-647, ISSN 1815-9346, makrjms.2024.10.643.647, (https://makhillpublications.co/view-article.php?doi=makrjms.2024.10.643.647) Abstract:

Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors (BPNSTs), including schwannomas and neurofibromas, are slow‐growing neoplasms arising from Schwann cells or fibroblasts. While surgical resection is the gold standard for symptomatic cases, data on outcomes for sporadic (nonneurofibromatosis‐ associated) BPNSTs remain limited. This study evaluates surgical outcomes, focusing on nerve function preservation and recurrence rates in isolated sporadic BPNSTs, contributing to optimal management strategies. To assess surgical outcomes, including postoperative neurological function and recurrence rates, in patients with isolated benign sporadic peripheral nerve sheath tumors. A retrospective analysis of 21 patients (mean age: 39.4 years., 67% female) with sporadic BPNSTs revealed that 67% presented with painless swelling, while 33% reported pain and 43% had sensory deficits. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 86% of cases, with partial resection performed in 14% to preserve nerve function. Histopathology confirmed schwannomas (76.2%) and neurofibromas (23.8%). Postoperatively, all patients with preoperative deficits showed improvement and no new neurological deficits were observed. At 1‐year follow‐up, no recurrences were detected, and all patients reported symptomatic relief. MRI and nerve conduction studies were critical for preoperative planning, with MRI identifying well‐encapsulated lesions in all cases. Comparative analysis with prior studies demonstrated superior outcomes, including a 0% recurrence rate and 100% improvement in neurological deficits, attributed to meticulous micro surgical techniques and strict patient selection. Surgical resection of sporadic BPNSTs yields excellent functional outcomes with minimal recurrence risk. Fascicle‐sparing techniques and precise preoperative imaging are pivotal for success. Longer follow‐up studies are recommended to assess late recurrences.

Keywords: Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors; schwannoma; neurofibroma; surgical outcomes; nerve preservation