Schwannoma... Chance of Return?

[run4you]

What are the odds that a schwannoma (well-differentiated) will return?

I ask because I had one removed from my brachial plexus (actually, my radial nerve in my armpit). It was a 3x4x4+ cm tumor, and the neurosurgeon of course had to cut it up to remove it... leaving several small pieces. My fingers are now going numb and burning again... but I don't feel any large lumps.

I'm trying to figure out if post-surgery trauma would worsen (I had some symptoms, but they're increasing) a year later?

Anyone had schwannoma removal that has had this issue?

[Greco95370]

I had one about the size of a ping pong ball removed from my right armpit (axelary) in late 96 at age 36. Now, slightly more then 20 years later, I still have some remaining numbness in much of my hand and parts of my upper and lower arm. The entire extremity does fatigue very quickly when working although I seem to continue on without much hindrance. More of an annoyance then anything else. Marijuana, which I rarely smoke, is the quickest and most effective relief for any pain. The first four months after surgery were extremely painful and it took about a year for most of the recovery. Close to three years for my grip and strength to reach the current level where it has remained. Overall, I consider it about a 5-10% disability of the right arm and hand. Not bad since there are much worse things that can happen to your health. Continue to enjoy life and don't let this get in your way. Hope this info helps.

[bird777]

yes my situation is a little different schwannoma removed from left armpit, now on top my forearm burns, numb, fingers ok, also tri-cept muscle unable to flex no matter how hard i try. hope this helps

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Hi, Many thanks for your question to the forum. It may recur but chances are rare. Hence surgical intervention is essential to remove if it is large and if permanent damage needs to be avoided.  Craniotomy, needle aspiration and cerebral shunts are common surgical treatment that may help.  Please consult a neurologist right away in this regard. Hope this helps.