The Role of Endoscopy in MVD for Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia and Hemifacial Spasm

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is used to treat cranial nerve compression syndromes such as trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and hemifacial spasm (HFS). The procedure involves decompressing the affected nerve by transposing the offending vessels or structures that may be compressing it usually at the root exit/entry zone (REZ). MVD has been shown to be an effective and safe treatment option for TN and HFS, with favorable outcomes and low complication rates. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the use of endoscopy in MVD. Several studies have reported its superiority regarding visualization of the surgical field, key structures identification, and reduced brain retraction. In summary, MVD is a very valuable treatment option for TN and HFS, with significantly favorable outcomes and lower complications in comparison to other treatment options including pure microscopic decompression.