Microvascular decompression
Microvascular Decompression (pronunciation: mi·cro·vas·cu·lar de·com·pres·sion) is a neurosurgical procedure aimed at relieving abnormal compression of a cranial nerve. It is most commonly used to treat Trigeminal Neuralgia, Hemifacial Spasm, Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia, and other neurovascular compression syndromes.
Etymology
The term "Microvascular Decompression" is derived from the Greek word "micros" meaning small, the Latin word "vasculum" meaning little vessel, and the Latin word "decompressio" meaning a release of pressure.
Procedure
Microvascular Decompression involves a small Craniotomy to expose the nerve at the base of the brainstem. The offending vessel is then moved away from the nerve and a small pad is placed between them to avoid further conflict.
Related Terms
- Neurovascular: Pertaining to both nerves and blood vessels.
- Decompression: The act or process of relieving pressure.
- Craniotomy: A surgical operation in which a bone flap is temporarily removed from the skull to access the brain.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face.
- Hemifacial Spasm: A nervous system disorder in which the muscles on one side of the face twitch involuntarily.
- Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia: A condition causing severe pain in the areas connected by the glossopharyngeal nerve, including the back of the nose and throat, back of the tongue, and ear.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Microvascular decompression
- Wikipedia's article - Microvascular decompression
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