Who should not have microvascular decompression?

UCLA Health

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is not recommended in an older patient who has severe heart or lung disease; in a patient with a blood-clotting abnormality, which might make surgery dangerous; or in very elderly patients, over 75 or 80. But we've had a number of patients in their 70s who have had microvascular decompression successfully, and they've often been delighted with the results.

Continue Learning about Neuralgia

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...

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point

Trigeminal neuralgia is severe pain caused by compression of a nerve.

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Postherpetic neuralgia is the most common type of neuralgia in the United States. Approximately 1 in...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

If the cause of your neuralgia can be determined you may be able to fix it with surgery. For posther...

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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