Microvascular Decompression (MVD) Cost in Thailand

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a surgical procedure used to relieve abnormal compression of a cranial nerve by a blood vessel. It is most commonly performed for conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm, and glossopharyngeal neuralgia. These conditions cause severe, often debilitating, nerve pain or muscle spasms. MVD works by relieving pressure on the affected nerve, thereby reducing or eliminating pain and restoring normal nerve function without damaging the nerve.

Consult a neurologist or neurosurgeon if you experience:

• Sharp, electric shock-like facial pain (trigeminal neuralgia)
• Involuntary facial muscle spasms (hemifacial spasm)
• Severe throat or ear pain (glossopharyngeal neuralgia)
• Symptoms that are not responsive to medications
• Progressive worsening of nerve-related symptoms

MVD may be considered when conservative treatments fail or side effects from medications are intolerable.

Preparation for MVD includes:

• Neurological evaluation and medical history
• Imaging tests, such as MRI with contrast, to identify the compressing vessel
• Review of medications, especially blood thinners
• Fasting for 6\u20138 hours before surgery
• Pre-surgical clearance from your physician or anesthesiologist
• Discussion with your neurosurgeon regarding risks, benefits, and expected recovery

Arrange for post-operative support and plan time off work or adjust to your daily responsibilities.

Performed under general anaesthesia, MVD involves:

• A small craniotomy (opening in the skull) behind the ear
• The surgeon gently moves the blood vessel away from the nerve
• A small Teflon pad is placed between the nerve and vessel to prevent future contact
• The bone is replaced, and the incisionis closed

The procedure preserves the nerve, aiming to relieve pain without causing numbness or nerve damage.

Microvascular decompression surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Hospital stays usually last 2 to 5 days, depending on recovery and individual condition.

Though generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Hearing loss
• Facial weakness or numbness
• Cerebrospinal fluid leak
• Stroke (rare)
• Reaction to anaesthesia

Complications are uncommon, especially in the hands of experienced surgeons.

• Significant or complete relief from nerve pain or spasms
• Preservation of nerve function without permanent numbness
• Long-lasting results, often eliminating the need for medication
• Improved quality of life and functional ability

MVD offers a curative approach in many cases, unlike medications that only manage symptoms.

Patients are monitored in a neuro unit after surgery. Some may experience mild headaches or dizziness. Most patients are discharged within a few days and can resume light activity in 2\u20134 weeks. Complete recovery usually occurs over 4\u20138 weeks. Follow-up appointments and imaging help ensure successful decompression and healing.

MVD has a high success rate, with over 80\u201390% of patients experiencing lasting relief from symptoms, especially for trigeminal neuralgia. Results are typically better when surgery is performed early and by experienced neurosurgeons.