A Case of Transoral Approach of a Parapharyngeal Schwannoma

Korean Journal of Head & Neck Oncology 2008;24(2):214-216.
Published online November 30, 2008.

Jeong Pyo Bong;Sung-Il Kim;Jang-Woo Kwon;Sung-Kyun Kim

부인두강에 발생한 신경초종에 대한 경구강 접근법 1례

봉정표;김성일;권장우;김성균

Abstract

Parapharyngeal space tumors are extremely rare accounting for about 0.5% of all head and neck tumors and treat mostly by surgical removal. Due to their inherent location, they present with varied non-specific signs and symptoms, resulting in a delay in diagnosis and unnecessary procedures, such as a ‘tonsillectomy’ or ‘inci-sion and drainage’ of a ‘quinsy’. We recently confirmed a case about a the neurilemnoma on parapharyngeal space during tonsillectomy. To present our experience with the transoral approach for parapharyngeal space tumor and describe our technique for removal of these neoplasms. Although parapharyngeal space tumours are uncommon, recognizing them would enable the correct sequence of investigations, instead of unnecessary procedures resulting in an increased morbidity for the patient.

Key Words: Parapharyngeal space, Schwanoma, Transoral approach