Microvascular decompression, also known as the Jannetta procedure, is a neurosurgical procedure used to treat trigeminal neuralgia a pain syndrome characterized by severe episodes of intense facial pain, and hemifacial spasm.
What are the side effects of microvascular decompression?
Microvascular decompression is an invasive procedure, and while safe in expert hands, does have potential rare/infrequent risks, including:
- Infection.
- Hearing loss, facial numbness, and/or facial weakness (usually temporary, rarely permanent)
- Spinal fluid leak.
- Difficulty with speech or swallowing.
Is microvascular decompression surgery considered brain surgery?
MVD requires the use of general anesthesia. In addition, because it is also brain surgery, those with other medical conditions or who are in generally poor health may not be candidates.
