Microvascular Decompression for Trigeminal Neuralgia

What is trigeminal neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic disorder that primarily affects the trigeminal nerve controlling facial sensations. The condition results in severe, sharp pain in the facial region. This form of pain arises from abnormal nerve transmission in the trigeminal nerve.

Trigeminal neuralgia develops when a blood vessel comes into contact with the trigeminal nerve, a nerve close to the brainstem. Typical signs of a trigeminal nerve include the following:

• Intensified pain, particularly on one side of the face.
• Throbbing or burning sensation in the facial region

Fortunately, various surgical methods and medications can alleviate severe pain in the facial region. Among these, microvascular decompression stands out as a promising solution. This procedure offers hope to those suffering from trigeminal neuralgia, as it effectively reduces facial pain by alleviating pressure on the trigeminal nerve. Of all the procedures used to treat trigeminal neuralgia, it is the only one that doesn’t attempt to relieve the pain by intentionally damaging the trigeminal nerve.

How do you perform microvascular decompression?

Microvascular decompression (MVD), also called the Jannetta procedure, is commonly performed to treat trigeminal neuralgia. This open surgical procedure involves creating a tiny incision behind the ear. A small hole is made in the skull, and under microscopic guidance, the surgeon reveals the trigeminal nerve. In most cases, a blood vessel is found pressing down on the trigeminal nerve. The blood vessel is carefully repositioned away from the nerve and interposed with a Teflon sponge, which should relieve the pain.

Despite being the most invasive surgical means of relieving pain from trigeminal neuralgia, microvascular decompression is also the most effective. This reassures patients that they are undergoing a treatment with a high success rate.