The role of imaging in isolated benign peripheral nerve tumors: A practical review for surgeons

The diagnosis of nerve tumor(s) must be suspected in all cases of tumefaction or pain on the path of a nerve exacerbated by percussion. Solitary nerve tumors are primarily schwannomas, but other rare tumors may be present such as intraneural ganglion cysts of controversial origin. Preservation of nerve continuity is the underlying goal for any surgical procedure, irrespective of the type of tumor. Therapeutic outcomes are closely linked to tumor resectability; in most patients, the resectability of the tumor, its type and benignity can be predicted based on medical imaging. Comparison with the clinical examination and case-based reasoning is crucial. Consequently, the aim of this review was to examine the role of imaging in isolated benign peripheral nerve tumors, and provide the surgeon with a practical guide for its application in predicting the nature and resectability of nerve tumors.