How effective is microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia?

UCLA Health

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is effective in about 95% of people. Over a period of time, some patients will have a return of pain. That can happen years later, but 10% or 20% of patients will have pain that returns later on, and sometimes the pad has moved or a new blood vessel has caused pressure on the nerve. Re-operation is something that we do in certain cases, but there are other kinds of treatment that can be involved.

Continue Learning about Neuralgia

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There isn't always much you can do to care for someone with neuralgia. Your main responsibility will...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

It is possible for some types of neuralgia to clear up without any treatment but it isn't likely. In...

Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center

Treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia include medications or surgeries.

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There are four main types of neuralgia. Most of them are named after the nerve they affect. Trigemin...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Neuralgia

The term neuralgia is used to describe pain that radiates along the path of a nerve. In some cases the cause is unknown, but the condition can be caused by some drugs, irritation from chemicals, kidney problems, diabetes, infections, pressure on nerves or from an injury. Trigeminal neuralgia is the most common type and involves facial pain. Neuralgia can occur at any age, but it is most common among the elderly. Neuralgia is not life-threatening, but the pain can be severe. A pain specialist can suggest ways to control the pain.

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