Benign schwannoma involving the infratemporal fossa and orbit

Schwann cells intimately ensheath all neurones--of both myelinated and non-myelinated nerves--in the peripheral nervous system. Though Schwann cell tumors are uncommon, up to 45% of the total may occur in the head and neck region. The purpose of this paper is to report a case of schwannoma arising in the right infratemporal fossa, and to describe the surgery involved in its removal. A benign tumor arising in this uncommon position requires a conservative surgical approach for cosmetic reasons. In this case, access was provided by mobilization of the zygoma, which, following removal of the tumor, was repositioned. This surgical procedure provided useful access to such a cryptic anatomical region whilst ensuring a satisfactory cosmetic result.