Management of cystic facial neuromas: an alternative approach.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the treatment of cystic facial neuroma with drainage and marsupialization as an alternative to tumor removal and facial nerve grafting.

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective case review.

SETTING

Tertiary referral hospital.

PATIENTS: Two cases of cystic facial neuroma.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Maintenance of facial nerve function at or better than preoperative function.

RESULTS

Both cases were managed with cyst drainage. Case 1 retained House-Brackmann Grade I facial nerve function. Case 2 retained Grade II function.

CONCLUSION

Cyst drainage provides a useful alternative to tumor removal and nerve sacrifice in patients with predominantly cystic facial neuromas and serviceable facial function.