surgeons matter life death mvd surgery trigeminal neuralgia

MVD Surgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia – Surgeons: A Matter of Life or Death

“I recently watched Surgeons: A Matter of Life or Death on Channel 5, which featured microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery for trigeminal neuralgia. Having undergone this procedure myself, I found the programme deeply moving. It captured the challenges and successes of surgery with honesty, offering a rare insight into this complex condition.” Aneeta Prem MBE CEO TNA UK (link to program https://www.channel5.com/show/surgeons-a-matter-of-life-or-death/season-2/episode-6

A special thank you to neurosurgeon Mr Alessandro Paluzzi and the patient for sharing their journey. Trigeminal neuralgia is often misunderstood, but their openness helps raise awareness of this life-altering condition.

Please note: The programme contains graphic surgical footage and carries a health warning, as some viewers may find it distressing.

What is Microvascular Decompression (MVD)?

Trigeminal neuralgia causes sudden, electric shock-like facial pain. It can make eating, talking, or even feeling a breeze unbearable. The most common cause is a blood vessel pressing against the trigeminal nerve, leading to extreme pain.

When medications fail, MVD surgery offers a potential solution by relieving pressure on the nerve.

How MVD works:

A neurosurgeon makes an incision behind the ear.
A small section of the skull is removed to reach the nerve.
The compressing blood vessel is carefully moved away.
A Teflon pad is placed between the nerve and the vessel to prevent further contact.

Unlike other procedures, MVD does not damage the nerve. It aims to provide long-term pain relief while preserving facial sensation.

Success rates indicate that 70% of patients remain pain-free for at least 10 years. For many, it is a life-changing procedure that restores normality.

Further reading: Treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia

The Role of Teflon in MVD Surgery

A Teflon pad is placed between the nerve and the blood vessel to stop further compression. It is a non-reactive medical material that the body generally accepts.

However, some risks exist:

Teflon granuloma (a rare inflammatory reaction) can occur, causing symptoms to return.
Some patients experience temporary facial numbness or hearing changes after surgery.

Anyone considering MVD surgery should discuss these risks with a specialist neurosurgeon.

Support from Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK (TNA UK)

Living with trigeminal neuralgia can be overwhelming, but no one has to go through it alone. The Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK offers a range of support services for sufferers, loved ones, family members, and carers.

Helpline: 0800 999 1899. Our trained volunteers have first-hand experience with trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain. They provide practical advice, emotional support, and guidance on treatment options.

Regional support groups: These groups offer the chance to connect with others who understand trigeminal neuralgia. Meetings are held in person and online, providing a supportive space to share experiences and hear from medical experts.

For more information on how we can help, visit TNA UK.

Final Thoughts

Watching Surgeons: A Matter of Life or Death was a powerful experience. The programme showed the realities of trigeminal neuralgia, the difficult treatment decisions, and the hope that MVD surgery can bring.

For those considering surgery, or supporting someone with trigeminal neuralgia, this programme provides valuable insight. While it is graphic, it highlights the importance of specialist treatment.

You are not alone. With information, medical care, and community support, relief is possible.