Facial plexiform neurofibroma: a surgical challenge

Abstract

Introduction: Plexiform neurofibroma occurring in the Head and Neck region can be disfiguring, causing cosmetic embarrassment to the affected patients. Surgical management is the mainstay of therapy. This is however a challenging undertaking because of the vascularity and the risk of primary haemorrhage, infiltration of facial soft tissues against the need to preserve functions and maintain aesthesis.Subjects and methods: We present case reports of four patients managed in our institution over the past
two years with a discussion on some practical points of management.
Results: All the four patients had surgical excision and refashioning. Post–operative results of surgical excision alone are satisfactory.
Conclusion: Plexiform neurofibromatosis is a benign tumour of nerve sheath amenable to surgical intervention when attended by meticulous details in well prepared patients.

KEYWORDS: Plexiform neurofibromatosis; facial, surgical excision