What does Microvascular Decompression (MVD) involve?

Microvascular Decompression is a neurosurgical procedure performed through a retrosigmoid craniotomy, where a small opening is made behind the ear to access the cranial nerves. The surgeon identifies a blood vessel compressing a nerve—typically the trigeminal nerve for trigeminal neuralgia—and places a small Teflon pad between the vessel and the nerve to relieve pressure. This minimally invasive technique aims to eliminate abnormal nerve signals while preserving normal function. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2–4 hours.