Analysis on subsequent operation after failed microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia

Objective To evaluate the effect and follow-up results of subsequent operation after failed microvascular decompression(MVD) of trigeminal neuralgia.Methods 35 cases with sebsequent exploration was performed for lack of pain relief(10 patients) and recurrent neuralgia (25 patients). Specific processing was performed according to different conditions of exploration The mean follow-up period after subsequent operation was 4. 2 years. Rusults Vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve at the root entry zone was observed in 25 ease. Distortion and tilting of the axis ol the norve becausc of dacron sheet too big was found in 5 patients and the findings were negative in the other 5 patients. MVD, MVD and partial sensory rhizotomy (PSR). PSR, adjustment daeron sheet or neurolysis of the trigeminal nerve were performed separately. Good results were obtamed in all patients after subsequent operation and complications were few and minor, Follow-up results were satisfaetory with only light recurrence in 3 cases. Conclusion Subsequent operation should be the first choice to all patients after failed MVD. MVD or neurolysis were performed as far as possible. And PSR still was a efficient and chosed treating method.