Microvascular decompression for the treatment of cerebral neuropathy

Objective To explore the application and technique of microvascular decompression (MVD) in the treatment of cerebral neuropathy. Methods Totals of 832 cases of primary cranial neuropathy under MVD treatment from April 2010 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed, which included 489 trigeminal neuralgia cases, 338 hemifacial spasm cases and 5 glossopharyngeal neuralgia cases. The surgical techniques and prevention of postoperative complications were analyzed. Results The follow-up time ranged from 3 to 84 months (mean 32.5 months). There was no death or other severe complications in our group. The postoperative cure rate with trigeminal neuralgia was 98.36%, 97.93% with hemifacial spasm and 100.00% with glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Conclusion MVD is a reliable method for primary cranial neuropathy, what is more, skilled microsurgical techniques, rich microsurgical experience and familiarity with the anatomy are the foundation of the surgical treatment for cranial neuropathy. Key words: Cerebral neuropathy; Microvascular decompression; Trigeminal neuralgia; Hemifacial spasm; Glossopharyngeal neuralgia