Trigeminal neuralgia is often described as one of the most excruciating pain disorders. It’s marked by sudden, severe facial pain along the trigeminal nerve, which controls sensation in the face. For patients who have tried medications without success or experienced intolerable side effects, microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery may offer hope.

What Is Microvascular Decompression?
MVD is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pressure from a blood vessel that compresses the trigeminal nerve. This pressure is believed to cause the abnormal firing of the nerve, resulting in sharp, electric-shock-like facial pain.

How It Works
During surgery, a neurosurgeon makes a small opening behind the ear and inserts a cushion between the compressing vessel and the nerve. Unlike some other procedures that damage or destroy the nerve to stop pain signals, MVD aims to preserve nerve function.

Benefits of MVD:

  • Provides long-lasting pain relief.

  • Doesn’t damage the nerve.

  • Has a high success rate (about 80-90%).

Who’s a Good Candidate?
MVD is typically recommended for:

  • Patients under 70 in good health.

  • Individuals with classic trigeminal neuralgia not responding to medications.

  • Patients who want a durable solution that maintains facial sensation.

Countryside Neurology offers expert referrals, pre-operative diagnostics, and post-surgical neurological support for patients undergoing MVD. Our experienced team works closely with neurosurgeons and provides personalized care before and after surgery.

📍 Countryside Neurology
2595 Tampa Road, Suite V & W, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
📞 727-712-1567
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🌐 Visit: countrysideneurology.com