Temporal bone hemangiomas involving the facial nerve

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery

Background:

• Facial nerve hemangiomas are rare, often mimicking common temporal bone tumors.
• Diagnostic challenges exist in differentiating them from vestibular schwannomas and facial nerve schwannomas.

Observation:

• Two case reports and a literature review were conducted.
• The study focused on the diagnostic and surgical management of facial nerve hemangiomas.

Findings:

• Early diagnosis and surgical excision can allow for facial nerve preservation.
• When facial nerve resection is necessary, primary anastomosis or nerve grafting can achieve House-Brackmann Grade III/VI function.

Implications:

• Complete surgical excision is the primary treatment for facial nerve hemangiomas.
• Nerve repair techniques are crucial for functional outcomes when the facial nerve is compromised.