Trigeminal Neuralgia Surgery: Which Area Does It Target?

When it comes to treating trigeminal neuralgia through surgery, the most widely recommended procedure by medical experts is microvascular decompression (MVD). This surgical approach is considered the gold standard due to its high success rates and long-term effectiveness.

Understanding the Surgical Area

The primary goal of microvascular decompression is to access the area surrounding the trigeminal nerve. This nerve is responsible for carrying sensation signals from the face to the brain and is often compressed by a nearby blood vessel in cases of trigeminal neuralgia. To relieve this pressure, the surgeon uses a technique known as the retrosigmoid or posterior fossa approach.

The Surgical Process Explained

If the patient suffers from left-sided trigeminal neuralgia, the surgeon will make an incision on the left side of the back of the head. A small section of the skull, approximately 3x3 cm in size, is then carefully removed to create a bone window. After opening the dura mater, the protective covering of the brain, the surgeon gently separates the tissues to reach the affected area.

Once the nerve and the compressing blood vessel are identified, a small, specially designed Teflon pad is inserted between them to prevent further contact. This effectively relieves the pressure on the nerve, which is the root cause of the intense facial pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia. Finally, the surgical site is closed layer by layer, and the removed bone fragment is typically replaced before the operation concludes.

Success Rate and Recovery

Microvascular decompression has proven to be highly effective, with more than 95% of patients experiencing complete relief from pain following the procedure. However, successful surgery is only part of the equation—post-operative care plays a crucial role in ensuring a full recovery.

After the operation, patients require close monitoring. Regular follow-up CT scans of the head are necessary to ensure there are no complications. Vital signs should also be continuously observed during the early recovery phase. Proper wound care, including regular dressing changes and keeping the incision site dry, is essential to prevent infections. Additionally, patients are encouraged to maintain a nutritious diet to support healing and overall recovery.

With the right combination of expert surgical technique and attentive post-operative care, microvascular decompression offers a promising solution for those suffering from trigeminal neuralgia, significantly improving their quality of life.