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.