Dumbbell C1 and C2 schwannomas are rare and have a distinctive presentation and anatomical features. To study the clinical characteristics of these tumors, we reviewed the microsurgical management of 18 patients with dumbbell C1 and C2 schwannomas by the far lateral approach. Data regarding clinical manifestations, radiological findings and surgical results were analyzed retrospectively. Total and subtotal resection of the tumor was achieved in 15 and three patients, respectively. At the time of discharge, 12 patients showed improvement while five patients remained the same. The average follow-up duration was 43 months (range = 3-110 months); six of seven patients had recovery from local pain or numbness. With the exception of one patient with hemiplegia or hemiparesthesia preoperatively, all patients recovered within 6 months postoperatively. The far lateral approach offers adequate exposure and access with minimal neural manipulation for treating dumbbell C1 and C2 schwannomas, and is considered the preferred surgical approach for resection of these tumors located ventrally or ventrolaterally to the first two cervical vertebrae.
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