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MVD's

Information

For members who either have had, are having or considering having an MVD! Somewhere where those having had MVD's can share their experiences with those who are considering getting this done.

Members: 19
Latest Activity: 1 day ago

http://mayfieldclinicspinesurgerycenter.com/PE-MVD.htm
Overview

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a surgical procedure that relieves abnormal compression of a cranial nerve. It is performed to treat trigeminal neuralgia, vagoglossopharyngeal neuralgia, and hemifacial spasm. These conditions are often caused by an artery or vein compressing the nerve root as it leaves the brainstem. When compressed, normal nerve impulses can recruit nearby nerve fibers and send faulty messages. Medications often provide relief to patients with these conditions, but when medications become ineffective or cause serious side effects, one treatment option is MVD.
What is MVD?

MVD is a surgical procedure to relieve the symptoms (pain, muscle twitching) caused by compression of a nerve by an artery or vein. MVD involves surgically opening the skull (craniotomy) and exposing the nerve at the base of the brainstem to insert a tiny sponge between the compressing vessel and the nerve. This sponge isolates the nerve from the pulsating effect and pressure of the blood vessel.

Trigeminal neuralgia is an irritation of the fifth cranial nerve causing severe pain that usually affects one side of the face, normally in the forehead, cheek, jaw, or teeth (Fig. 1). To treat trigeminal neuralgia, a sponge is placed between the trigeminal nerve and the superior cerebellar artery or a branch of the petrosal vein. By removing the compression, the painful symptoms are relieved.
Who is a candidate for MVD?

You may be a candidate for MVD if you have:

* trigeminal neuralgia that is not well controlled with medication and you desire minimal to no facial numbness that may be associated with other treatments such as percutaneous stereotactic radiofrequency rhizotomy (PSR) or glycerol injection
* facial pain isolated in the ophthalmic division or in all three trigeminal divisions
* facial pain recurrence after a previous percutaneous or radiosurgery procedure

Because MVD involves the use of general anesthesia and brain surgery, patients with other medical conditions or who are in poor health may not be candidates. MVD is not successful in treating facial pain caused by multiple sclerosis. Because of the low risk of hearing loss, MVD may not be suitable for patients who have hearing loss in the other ear.

Discussion Forum

Inflamed Nerve 7 Replies

I had MVD in November 09. My trigeminal nerve is inflamed. Their not sure why. Maybe I am reacting to the teflon.? Now I have pain in the the jaw. I my teeth feel like they are shifting. Have an…

Started by Pamela Olson. Last reply by Pamela Olson Feb 26.

problems after mvd surgery 1 Reply

Had mvd surgery almost 4 ths ago. i have lingering problems including the numbness on half the face and now dry eye problems from it. teeth are very sensitive since the only thing you feel is the tee…

Started by Debbie Burns. Last reply by Tami McGough Nov. 10, 2009.

problems after mvd surgery 1 Reply

Started by Debbie Burns. Last reply by Bob Homerin Nov. 6, 2009.

Links to information on MVD's.

http://www.umanitoba.ca/cranial_nerves/trigeminal_

Started by Kerry Oct. 13, 2009.

Comment Wall

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Comment by Andy Anthony 1 day ago: I had surgery many years and moons ago. The constant concern was with which Doctor you have your surgery with. Of the people I know that have had the surgery they did extensive research as did I. After my surgery I had 2 wonderful years of pain free. (With not one other side effect). Unfortunately after the 2 years to the month of my surgery the attacks came back full force. Back on Meds (sadly) but I found another incredible resource (Chiropractor) and not just any ole off the shelf one. This one specializes in Upper Cervical neck and head. She has been a GodSend from day one. So between her and a manageable dose of Meds, I am back to completely Pain Free (Knock on a Tree or two). I do pray that others find some source of relief as I have. (I am blessed) BTW, I have had TN since May 1993 [coming up on my 17th anniversary :( ] In a Nutshell I would take MVD over the shocks and burns ANY DAY! It is so worth the risk.. BUT Do you Homework, find more competent Doctors, they are far and few between. Sincerely, Andy

Comment by Line Emma Mathilde Reinhold on March 8, 2010 at 1:51am: Today my TN is gone....after the MVD surgery...
I got my life back!!! Iam so happy and relief.. I can only say... get it... what else is there to do??? medication, all the time ( and still pain) or take the chance back to life....

Comment by Julie on March 3, 2010 at 12:06am: Thanks to all of you for sharing what you experienced w/MVD. My gamma knife procedure didn't take, & the doctor is suggesting the MVD surgery. I'm trying to do as much research on my own, & I want to interview one of his patients that had success. Dr. Duma in Newport Beach is a capable doctor, but it still helps to be informed before I make a serious decision.

Comment by Line Emma Mathilde Reinhold on January 22, 2010 at 12:29pm: I also had the MVD on 4 januar 2010. But still have pain and TN attacks. And nerve damage i my hand and foot. I hope it will be better soon...

Comment by Kimberley Bauman on November 30, 2009 at 3:46pm: I had the MVD on 12/15/08 and I'm happy I did. For a few months I was completely pain free! I began having mild TN attacks in July. They are mild enough that I just deal with them and do not use any medication. I'm still very happy I did the MVD and would do it again of necessary.

Now I have mild occassional attacks and the most annoying numb/tingling sensation on my face near my lips, chin & right cheek.

I'm very happy with the results of my surgery.

Comment by Debbie Burns on October 24, 2009 at 7:30am: I to had the surgery 3 mths ago for the first time. I was left with that side of my face numb. I still have trouble eating and have that pulling feeling on my side of my face always sometimes more then less. I also have a feeling of someone had punched me in the cheek bone area. I now have dry eye because my eye is unprotected from not having any feeling to blink when needed. Yes the electric pain went away but left with other pain 24 -7 not sure which is better. hope it gets better with time. again everyone is different.

Comment by Tami McGough on October 20, 2009 at 10:55pm: I had this procedure completed one time withiut success, then they tried a second time, too much scar tissue, closed me up, had a cebellar hemmorrhage, ended up in a coma, called in the family. But I made it through, but no success from the surgeries. But everyone is different. Went to the physician who pioneered the surgery: Dr. Peter Janetta, Pittsburgh, PA.

Comment by Aleshia on October 17, 2009 at 9:17am: Having MVD surgery was one of the best decisions I've ever made about my health. it gave me back my life. I am grateful for the support, education and compassionate caring this group offered me.! I keep coming back to pass on the blessings that were given to me.
Peace and tenderness,
Aleshia

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