Developing an algorithm for cost-effective, clinically judicious management of peripheral nerve tumors

Peripheral nerve tumors such as neurofbromas and schwannomas have become increasingly identified secondary to improved imaging modalities including magnetic resonance neurogram and ultrasound. Given that a majority of these peripheral nerve tumors are benign lesions, it becomes important to determine appropriate management of such asymptomatic masses. We propose a normal cost-effective management paradigm for asymptomatic peripheral nerve neurofbromas and schwannomas that has been paired with economic analyses. Specifcally, our management paradigm identifes patients who would beneft from surgery for asymptomatic peripheral nerve tumors, while providing cost-effective recommendations regarding clinical exams and serial imaging for such patients.