Effectiveness of Minimally Invasive Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Minimally invasive treatment for trigeminal neuralgia has shown promising results, especially when medication fails to provide relief. Initially, patients often try pharmaceutical options such as carbamazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin, and phenytoin—commonly used antiepileptic drugs—to manage the pain. However, when these medications no longer work effectively, a minimally invasive procedure becomes a viable alternative. During the surgery, the responsible blood vessel compressing the nerve is identified and carefully separated using a small pad, often resulting in significant symptom improvement.

Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by sudden, sharp, electric-like pain in the face—often described as stabbing, burning, or shock-like. These painful episodes tend to start and stop abruptly, making daily activities such as eating or talking extremely uncomfortable. The condition primarily affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 50, and it is more common in women than men.

What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Medical research suggests that trigeminal neuralgia is caused by the compression of the trigeminal nerve by a nearby blood vessel. At the point where the nerve exits the skull, a section of the nerve root lacks the protective myelin sheath. As people age, arteries may become hardened due to atherosclerosis, and the loss of vascular elasticity can lead to pulsating pressure on the nerve. This irritation can trigger abnormal electrical activity in the nerve, causing intense facial pain.

Why Choose Minimally Invasive Surgery?

Minimally invasive microvascular decompression is a preferred treatment option for patients suffering from long-term or medication-resistant trigeminal neuralgia. The procedure involves gently relocating and cushioning the blood vessel pressing on the nerve, which helps reduce or eliminate pain signals. Compared to traditional open surgery, this approach offers faster recovery, fewer complications, and a high success rate, making it an effective solution for long-term pain relief.