Two case reports of benign vagus nerve tumors: Diagnosis and treatment approaches

Abstract

Benign tumors of peripheral nerves, particularly schwannomas and neurofibromas, are rare. Involvement of the vagus nerve remains even more uncommon. The cervical para-pharyngeal region is the most common of the extra-cranial locations. Imaging, particularly MRI, plays an essential role in characterizing the mass, assessing its extent, and studying its anatomical relationships, thus allowing for the planning of the surgical procedure. The standard treatment is based on a complete excision of the tumor to prevent recurrences while minimizing the risk of postoperative complications.We report two cases of sporadic benign vagus nerve tumors: one neurofibroma and one schwannoma, both treated by complete excision requiring vagus nerve sacrifice. The postoperative course was favorable without sequelae in the first case, while a Claude-Bernard-Horner syndrome was observed in the second patient. Furthermore, we propose a clinical, radiological, and therapeutic update on this rare condition.