[Application of neuroendoscope combined with minimal-access for elderly patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia in enhanced recovery after surgery of microvascular decompression].

Objective: To explore the value of neuroendoscope and minimal-access in enhanced recovery after surgery of microvascular decompression (MVD) for treatment elderly patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITN). Methods: The clinical data of 62 elderly patients with ITN who undergoing neuroendoscope-assisted minimal-access microvascular decompression were analyzed retrospectively, including operative data and follow-up results. Results: In 62 cases, the effective rate was 96.8%, with 88.7% complete cure and 8.1% little residual pain. Sixty successful cases were followed-up for an average of 61 months.Three cases recurred within 3 years after operation.Eight cases had complications after MVD. Conclusions: There was no serious complications that could be ascribed to old age and the operative result was satisfactory compared with younger age cases.Endoscope and minimal-access can help shorten operation time, raise the effectiveness of MVD, reduce postoperative recurrence rate, and enhanced recovery after surgery for elderly patients.