Spinal extradural foraminal neoplasms are uncommon lesions that are traditionally resected via an open laminectomy and facetectomy approach. In this paper the authors present their mini-open approach for the removal of 3 such tumors. The authors retrospectively reviewed 3 patients with extradural schwannoma who underwent mini-open resection and fusion between June 2006 and July 2007. Clinical data, tumor characteristics, and outcomes were analyzed. All 3 patients underwent successful mini-open treatment of their spinal neoplasms. Postoperative MR imaging demonstrated complete resection in 2 cases and subtotal resection in 1 case. Extradural foraminal neoplasms can be safely and effectively treated with mini-open techniques. Reductions in blood loss, hospitalization, and tissue disruption may be potential benefits of this approach.