Neuromonitoring guided excision of posterior interosseous nerve schwannoma: review of literature and technical nuances

Abstract

Background: Schwannoma, also called neurilemoma, originates from Schwann cells. Approximately 19% of all solitary schwannomas occur in the upper limb, but schwannomas of the posterior  interosseous nerve are quite rare, with only 3–4 cases having been reported to date.

Objective: To signify the use of neuromonitoring in peripheral nerve surgery, like the excision of tumor mass.

Method and material: A 40-year-old male presented with a swelling over the left forearm for 2 years, with complaints of localized pain and tingling sensation over the index and middle fingers while pressing over the swelling, and with no motor deficit. The tumor was excised under general anesthesia using magnification and microsurgical techniques under constant neuromonitoring.

Results: The use of magnification and microsurgical techniques with technical nuances, such as neuromonitoring, makes it more convenient and prevents underlying nerve damage.