Neuroendoscopy-assisted microvascular decompression for hemifacial spasm

Objective To assess the efficacy and advantages of endoscope-assisted microvascular decompression for the treatment of primary hemifacial spasm. Methods Sixteen patients with hemifacial spasm underwent endoscope-assisted microvascular decompression via a minimally invasive suboccipital approach between April 1999 and October 2001. Results All patients experienced resolution of the preoperative symptoms after the surgery. There were no complications of hearing loss, hemifacial paralysis, cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and so on. After 1-year follow-up, no recurrence happened. Conclusion Endoscope-assisted microvascular decompression improves the observation of the anatomic neurovascular relationship with less retraction of the brainstem, nerves and less damage to the vessels. It has great value in elevating the efficacy, decreasing the potential complications and the recurrent rate.