Microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia. Surgical technique and long-term results.

In summary, it can be concluded that MVD has a long-term success rate equal or superior to percutaneous procedures without the higher rate of permanent neurologic sequelae. It is a safe operation with an almost negligible mortality and low morbidity in skilled hands. If the goal in the treatment of TGN remains obtaining a pain-free state without the need for medication and no permanent neurologic deficit, then MVD remains the definitive procedure of choice for typical TGN.