Microvascular Decompression (MVD)

DIAGNOSIS

-Special MRI (“Trigeminal neuralgia protocol MRI”) - This MRI refers to a specialized set of imaging techniques and sequences designed to evaluate the trigeminal nerve and related structures in cases of suspected trigeminal neuralgia. This protocol aims to capture detailed images that can help identify potential causes of trigeminal neuralgia, such as vascular compression or structural abnormalities affecting the best trigeminal nerve.

• CT Scan - A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal structures.

• Hearing test (Audiogram) - Also known as an audiometric evaluation, it is a procedure used to assess a person's ability to hear sounds at different frequencies and volumes. It involves listening to various tones and sounds through headphones and responding when the sounds are heard. This test helps determine the degree and type of hearing loss a person may have.

• Blood work and possibly an EKG

Baseline Brain Wave Monitoring - Baseline brain wave monitoring refers to the initial recording of a person's brain wave activity using electroencephalography (EEG) to establish a reference or baseline pattern of normal brain function. This baseline is used for comparison in future EEG recordings to detect any changes or abnormalities that may indicate neurological conditions or changes in brain activity.

• Preoperative Physical Evaluation

PREPARING FOR MVD SURGERY

Before surgery

• You must always follow the instructions of your MVD surgery team precisely.

• To start, you will review and sign the necessary consent forms and paperwork. These documents are meant to confirm and inform you and your surgeon about your medical history and certain understandings. There may be pre-surgical tests several days before surgery.

• Your primary care physician will talk with you about any dietary concerns and what medications you need to stop taking. She will make sure you’re cleared for treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.

• You will stop taking any NSAIDs (naproxen, ibuprofen, etc.) and blood thinners (aspirin, Plavix, Coumadin, etc.) beforehand.

During surgery

• After processing for admittance, you will follow a few steps to a procedure that generally takes two to three hours.

• Administration of anaesthesia and connecting small recording and stimulating wires to the brain to monitor brain activities in real-time.

• Craniectomy

• Exposing the nerve

• Inserting a sponge and closing.

After surgery

After monitoring you overnight, you’ll stay until your activity levels are satisfactory. Usually one to two days.

RESTRICTIONS

Restrictions during the first few weeks after MVD may include:

• Lifting nothing heavier than five pounds.
• No housework, sex, yard work or other strenuous activity.
• No alcohol.
• No nicotine products, including vaping.
• No driving or air travel.

AFTERCARE

Aftercare may include:

• Gentle washing with mild baby shampoo. Pat drying.
• No submerging in a tub, pool or bath for 2 weeks after surgery.
• No lotion or ointments, including hair-coloring products for 2 weeks after surgery.