Removal of infratemporal fossa schwannoma via a transmandibular transpterygoid approach

Trigeminal schwannomas are commonly located in the intracranium, and extracranial schwannomas limited to the infratemopral fossa (ITF) are extremely rare. Trigeminal mandibular schwannoma was found in the left ITF of a 48-year-old man who presented with a 1-year history of left facial pain and trismus. The schwannoma was completely removed by a transmandibular transpterygoid approach with no major complications. This case is discussed with a review of the literature on this rare occurrence, focusing on the surgical approach.