RECURRENT PTERYGOPALATINE/INFRATEMPORAL SCHWANNOMA MANAGED WITH FRONTO-TEMPORALORBITAL ZYGOMATIC TUMOR EXCISION: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Background: Schwannomas are benign, slow-growing nerve sheath tumors originating from Schwann cells. Although they can occur anywhere in the body, their occurrence in the pterygopalatine or infratemporal fossa is extremely rare. Their deep anatomical location, proximity to vital neurovascular structures, and potential for recurrence pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Case Report: We report the case of a 49-year-old female who presented with recurrent pterygopalatine/infratemporal schwannoma, manifesting as pain and swelling in the fronto-temporal region along with deviation of the angle of the mouth. She underwent surgical excision via a fronto-temporal-orbital zygomatic approach. Anesthetic management involved careful preoperative preparation, maintenance of hemodynamics, and airway precautions due to the risk of difficult intubation. The tumor was successfully excised and the patient was transferred to intensive care for postoperative monitoring.

Conclusion: Schwannomas of the pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossae are rare but surgically curable benign tumors. Early diagnosis, meticulous surgical planning, and careful anesthetic management are crucial for optimal outcomes.