[Vascular decompression in the treatment of vagoglossopharyngeal neuralgia].

BACKGROUND

Vagoglossopharyngeal neuralgia (VGFN) is an uncommon facial pain syndrome caused by neurovascular conflict.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate anatomical relationships between cranial nerves IX-X and compressing arteries, as well as effectiveness of vascular decompression (VD) in these patients.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

VD via retrosigmoid approach was performed in 9 patients with VGFN. Age of patients was 33-72 years. There were 4 males and 5 females. Two ones had right-sided lesions, 7 - left-sided lesions. Mean follow-up period was 8.5 years (range 3-15).

RESULTS

Neurovascular conflict was caused by posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) in 6 cases, anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) and PICA in 2 cases, PICA and vertebral artery in 1 case. Interposition technique was used in 7 cases, transposition of vessels - in 2 cases. Complete relief of VGFN was achieved in all patients. Mild dysphonia without dysphagia was registered in 1 case and regressed throughout 1.5 months. There were no VGFN recurrences.

CONCLUSION

VD is a highly effective surgical method for VGFN with low rate of complications and pain recurrences.