Continuous intensive care unit monitoring with frequent neurologic checks is imperative in the immediate postoperative period. Maintain meticulous eye care when facial nerve function is compromised. Appropriately manage comorbid medical conditions. Institute speech and physical therapy as soon as possible. Typically, an enhanced MRI is obtained 6 months to 1 year postoperative and at variable periods thereafter.
Malignant lesions require more frequent follow-up care.
Careful preoperative assessment and control of comorbid conditions can further diminish the risks of complication. The outcome and prognosis for cure from surgical resection depends on the histology, size, and location of the tumor and the approach chosen. Cessation of tumor growth from primary radiation also depends on the specific factors listed above. Expected facial palsy rates are high for primary facial schwannomas. The effect on quality of life from a facial nerve palsy is quite significant.