Objective: To investigate the symptoms, diagnosis, operative approaches and prognosis of hypoglossal neurinoma.
Methods: The clinical symptoms, radiological features, prevalence, operative approaches and prognosis of 9 cases of hypoglossal neurinoma were analyzed.
Results: Cases of neurinoma of the hypoglossal nerve accounted for 1.9% of the cases of skull base neoplasm in the same period. Most of the tumor was in the shape of dumbbell, involving both intracranial and extracranial segments of the nerve. In a few cases, the tumor mainly involved the intracranial segment of hypoglossal nerve. All the cases were operated on, of which 7 through extreme-far-lateral approach, 1 through extreme-far-lateral approach combined with cervical approach, and one through the midline approach. Total resection was achieved in all cases. Follow up was performed in 7 cases, among which 5 cases returned to their work, 1 resumed the ability of self-care, and one still required care of others.
Conclusion: As the hypoglossal canal is next to the jugular foramen and foramen magnum, preoperative diagnosis of the hypoglossal neurinoma is difficult. The most common initial symptom is atrophy of tongue muscle. Radical resection is the best choice of treatment. The extrem-far-lateral approach is the best approach for operation. The prognosis is inspiring after operation.