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Microvascular Decompression (MVD) is a surgical procedure used to relieve pressure on a nerve when a nearby blood vessel compresses it. This pressure can cause intense facial pain or muscle spasms. The surgery is often used to treat conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia and hemifacial spasm.
To perform the surgery, the doctor creates a small opening behind the ear. Through this opening, the surgeon carefully moves the blood vessel away from the nerve. A soft, tiny cushion is placed in between so the two don’t touch anymore.
The primary goal is to alleviate pain without damaging the nerve. The nerve usually continues to function after surgery. This procedure is done while the patient is asleep under general anaesthesia. After surgery, most people stay in the hospital for a few days and gradually return to their routine over the following weeks.
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
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 6–8 hours before surgery
- Pre-surgical clearance from your physician or anesthesiologist
- Discussion with your neurosurgeon regarding risks, benefits, and expected recovery
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
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
- 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
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 2–4 weeks. Complete recovery usually occurs over 4–8 weeks. Follow-up appointments and imaging help ensure successful decompression and healing.
MVD has a high success rate, with over 80–90% of patients experiencing lasting relief from symptoms, especially for trigeminal neuralgia. Results are typically better when surgery is performed early and by experienced neurosurgeons.
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Vinmec Smart City Hospital
Ha noi, Vietnam
- Vietnam’s growing population and rising expectations for medical quality have put increasing pressure on the national healthcare system.
- Many public hospitals are operating at full capacity, resulting in long waiting times and limited access to advanced treatments.
- There is a clear need for well-equipped private hospitals that can offer efficient, modern, and internationally standardised healthcare.
- To meet this demand, Vinmec Smart City International Hospital was established in the rapidly developing Vinhomes Smart City area of Hanoi.
- The hospital was designed with the capacity to serve tens of thousands of patients annually, addressing both local and international healthcare needs.
- Vinmec Smart City International Hospital officially opened in October 2024, marking the eighth addition to the Vinmec healthcare network.
- The facility spans a large, modern campus and comprises 14 specialised departments, covering areas such as surgery, obstetrics, rehabilitation, and internal medicine.
- It integrates high-end medical technologies sourced from globally recognised brands to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.
- A significant innovation is the implementation of a fully digital electronic medical records system, enabling the fast and secure sharing of patient data among healthcare teams.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are applied in various clinical processes, such as disease screening, diagnosis, and designing personalised treatment plans.
- The hospital also features a dedicated Cell and Gene Therapy Centre, offering breakthrough therapies such as CAR-T cell therapy for cancer patients, thereby positioning the hospital at the forefront of medical advancements.
- The hospital strives to deliver exceptional medical care that meets international healthcare standards, prioritising safety, quality, and a patient-centred approach.
- It aims to alleviate pressure on overloaded public hospitals by providing high-quality, efficient, and accessible private medical services.
- By combining innovation, skilled professionals, and modern infrastructure, Vinmec Smart City strives to become a regional leader in medical excellence.
- The long-term vision includes becoming a referral centre for complex treatments, not only in Vietnam but also across Southeast Asia.
Vinmec Nha Trang
Nha Trang, Vietnam
- Located on Tran Phu Street in Vinh Nguyen Ward, Nha Trang City, is a prime area easily accessible to residents and tourists.
- Built on a total area of over 19,000 ?, with eight above-ground floors and one basement, designed to support modern healthcare delivery.
- Provides private inpatient rooms, each with one bed, ensuring comfort and personalised care for every patient.
- Holds international accreditation from a globally recognised body (JCI), reflecting a strong commitment to safety, quality, and patient-centred care.
- Equipped with advanced imaging systems and diagnostic tools to support accurate and timely treatment.
- Offers services across primary specialities, including cardiology, paediatrics, obstetrics, surgery, and diagnostics.
- Utilises digital healthcare systems to streamline operations and enhance treatment precision.
- Staffed by a team of experts who are regularly trained through partnerships with global medical institutions in countries like France, Japan, the U.S., and Singapore.
- Welcomes both Vietnamese and international patients, promoting high-quality care and regional medical tourism.
- Operates as part of a nationwide private hospital network developed by Vingroup, focused on delivering premium healthcare across Vietnam.
- Built with strict sterilisation and infection control standards to protect patient health.
- Continuously updates its technology and practices to align with global medical advancements.
Vinmec Can Tho Hospital
Can Tho, Vietnam
- Located in the heart of Can Tho city, it addresses the growing healthcare needs of the Mekong Delta region.
- Regional access to international-standard medical services was limited, especially in southern Vietnam.
- Rising demand for modern infrastructure and specialised healthcare due to population growth and urbanisation.
- Established as the 9th hospital in the Vinmec Healthcare System, covering 41,000+ ? with six floors and 155 beds.
- Launched with 21 medical specialities and centres, supported by advanced medical equipment and highly qualified personnel.
- Implemented cutting-edge technology (e.g., 3.0 Tesla MRI, 512-slice CT scanner, digital mammography, AI-integrated mobile X-ray).
- Rolled out incentive programs for community engagement (e.g., free health screenings, discounted cancer checkups).
- Built an expert-led service model focused on early screening, precise diagnosis, and modern treatment protocols.
- To deliver world-class healthcare locally and reduce the need for patients to travel to major cities for treatment.
- To improve public health outcomes in the Mekong Delta by combining advanced technology with expert care.
- To align with Vinmec's mission of providing high-quality, patient-centred care and promoting innovation in Vietnamese healthcare
Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta
Bangalore, India
Apollo Hospitals Bannerghatta located in Bengaluru, India is accredited by JCI, NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- Bed Capacity is 250
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- 120 slice CT angiogram
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- 4-D Ultrasound for 4 dimensional sonography
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- Thallium Laser-First in India
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- 100 plus consultants
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HCG Kalinga Rao Road
Bangalore, India
HCG Kalinga Rao Road located in Bengaluru, India is accredited by NABH, NABL. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- Diagnostic facility equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technologies, such as 3T MRI, SPECT, PET-CT
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- The services provided under medical oncology include Haemato oncology, Pediatric oncology, Breast health, Preventive oncology, Daycare chemotherapy
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- Ortho-Oncology clinic to be the first-of-its-kind in Bangalore, offering dedicated care for Musculoskeletal tumors
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Sarvodaya Hospital and Research Centre
Faridabad, India
4.9 ( 4 Reviews )
Sarvodaya Hospital and Research Centre located in Faridabad, India is accredited by NABH, NABL. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- Sarvodaya Hospital has a 500 bed capacity which is inclusive of 65 ICU beds.
- A dedicated dialysis unit for people with kidney conditions.
- The hospital has a cancer center which makes cancer treatment a seamless process.
- There is an upcoming oncology center in Sarvodaya Hospital Faridabad.
- Technologies such as 128 Slice CT scan, 500 MA X-Ray, 1.5 Tesla MRI and Mammography facility.
Fortis Hospital
Bangalore, India
5.0 ( 1 Reviews )
Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, has been a leading multi-speciality healthcare institution, offering advanced medical services with a patient-centric approach. The hospital features 400+ beds, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and experienced specialists across various specialities, providing comprehensive and compassionate care. Trusted by patients from India and abroad, Fortis Bannerghatta Road combines modern technology with high-quality treatment to deliver world-class healthcare.
Fortis Hiranandani Hospital
Mumbai, India
- Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, is a leading NABH-accredited multi-super speciality hospital offering advanced tertiary care with over 150 beds.
- The hospital is known for clinical excellence in Cardiac Sciences, Oncology, Neurology, Orthopaedics, Organ Transplants, Urology, Gastroenterology, and Critical Care.
- With a strong team of experienced doctors, modern medical technology, and international patient services, the hospital provides comprehensive and patient-focused treatment.
- It maintains high standards of safety, hygiene, and quality care, making it a trusted healthcare destination in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital
Delhi, India
Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital located in New Delhi, India is accredited by NABH. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- One of the biggest tertiary care hospitals in India
- Facility is fusion of state of the art technology, competent clinicians, and world-class infrastructure
- 230 beds
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- Deployed high-end technologies & smart digital system
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Aster Medcity
Kochi, India
- 670 bed facility
- 24 hours Emergency and Trauma Care
Aster Centres of Excellence
- Cardiac Sciences
- Orthopaedics & Rheumatology
- Neurosciences
- Nephrology & Urology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Integrated Liver Care
- Womens Health
- Child & Adolescent Health
- Multi Organ Transplant
- Diagnostic Technology used for increasing the efficiency of diagnostic procedures.
- Streamlined Application of Therapeutic Technology
- Minimal Access Robotic Surgery (MARS) which makes use of the da Vinci Surgical System is applied by the specialists in Aster Medcity, Kochi, Kerala.
- ORI Fusion Digital Integrated Operation Theatres which applies Karlstorz OR1 Fusion system.
- Completely digital Anesthesia facility
- Pharmacy which possesses completely Automated Drug Dispensing
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+99Process Involved for Microvascular Decompression (MVD)
- Diagnosis and Evaluation: The doctor reviews the patient’s symptoms, performs a physical examination, and orders scans, such as an MRI, to confirm nerve compression.
- Pre-Surgical Preparation: The patient is given instructions regarding fasting, medications, and tests such as blood work or an ECG before surgery.
- Surgery (MVD Procedure): Under general anaesthesia, the surgeon makes a small opening behind the ear, moves the blood vessel off the nerve, and places a soft pad between them.
- Immediate Recovery: After surgery, the patient is closely monitored in a recovery room or ICU for any complications or changes in nerve function.
- Hospital Stay: Most patients remain in the hospital for 3 to 5 days to rest and recover under medical supervision.
- Home Recovery: After discharge, the patient continues to recover at home, with activity restrictions and follow-up appointments scheduled.
- Long-Term Follow-Up: The doctor monitors the patient’s recovery progress, symptom relief, and nerve function through regular follow-ups or, as needed, imaging.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A condition causing sudden, severe facial pain due to irritation of the trigeminal nerve, often triggered by touch, chewing, or speaking.
- Hemifacial Spasm: Involuntary twitching or spasms on one side of the face caused by pressure on the facial nerve.
- Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia: A sudden, intense pain felt in the throat, back of the tongue, or near the tonsils, often caused by pressure on the glossopharyngeal nerve.
- Geniculate Neuralgia: A rare nerve disorder causing ear pain, often linked to the nervus intermedius, which lies near the facial nerve.
- Tinnitus: A ringing or buzzing sound in the ear, sometimes caused by nerve compression in the brain.
- Vertigo: A spinning or dizzy sensation that can occur when nerves controlling balance are affected.
- Occipital Neuralgia: Piercing pain at the back of the head and neck caused by irritation of the occipital nerves
- Sleep Medicine: The patient is put under general anaesthesia to remain fully asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery.
- Head Positioned for Surgery: The head is gently placed in the correct position, and the skin behind the ear is cleaned.
- Small Cut and Bone Opening: A small cut is made behind the ear, and a tiny piece of the skull is carefully removed to reach the brain area where the nerve is located.
- Finding the Nerve and Blood Vessel: With the help of a microscope, the surgeon sees the nerve that’s being squeezed by a nearby blood vessel.
- Fixing the Pressure: The surgeon gently moves the blood vessel away and places a soft cushion between the boat and the nerve.
- Closing the Area: The bone is replaced or covered, and the skin is stitched or closed in an appropriate manner.
- Rest and Recovery: After surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery room, where doctors closely monitor their progress as they begin to heal.
- Craniotomy
- MRI
- Angiography
- Neuroendoscopy
- Electrophysiology
- Neuromonitoring
- Lumbarpuncture
- CTscan
- Endoscopy
- Myelography
- Long-Term Pain Relief: Effectively reduces or eliminates nerve-related facial pain, particularly in cases of trigeminal neuralgia.
- Preserves Nerve Function: Unlike other treatments, MVD relieves pressure without damaging the affected nerve.
- Minimally Invasive Option: In experienced hands, MVD is a safe microsurgical procedure with minimal impact on surrounding tissues.
- Low Recurrence Rates: Most patients experience lasting relief with a low likelihood of symptoms returning.
- Improved Quality of Life: Relief from chronic nerve pain often leads to better sleep, mood, and daily functioning.
- Medication-Free Outcome: Many patients can reduce or stop pain medications after successful surgery.
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