Outcome of microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia using autologous muscle graft: A five-year prospective study

INTRODUCTION: Trigeminal Neuralgia (TGN) is a syndrome characterized by Paroxysmal, shock like hemifacial pain. Among the various treatment options micro vascular decompression (MVD) has gained popularity in the recent years. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 182 patients underwent MVD, between 1995–2007 out of 530 patients treated for Trigeminal Neuralgia at our service. All were operated by retro auricular sub occipital craniectomy by a single surgeon using autologous muscle graft. They were assessed for pain relief, complications and the data was analysed. RESULTS: Males were 84 (61.3%) females 53 (38%) with a ratio of 1.5=1. Age ranged from 25-75 years. Duration of symptoms ranging from 6 months to 25 years (average 4-6 years). Seventy seven (56.2% were affected on the right side whereas 60 (43.8%) had pain on the left side. Imaging demonstrated vascular compression in 84 (61%). At surgery superior cerebellar artery was the commonest cause of compression in 71.5%. More than one artery was found in relation to the nerve in 15.3%. There was no mortality, CSF leak 2.9% and transient facial palsy in 2.2% were the notable complications. CONCLUSION: MVD is the procedure of choice for TGN if there is no contraindication for surgery. Adequate tissue respect, meticulous surgical steps and experience will reduce complications. Autologus muscle graft can give comparable and durable results possibly with lesser complications.