microvascular decompression
Pronunciation: MY-kroh-vas-kyoo-lar dee-kom-PREH-shun
Also written as: MVD — microvascular decompression
Surgical technique to relieve nerve compression by repositioning blood vessels using microscopic visualization.
Full Definition
Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a neurosurgical procedure that relieves compression of cranial nerves by abnormally positioned blood vessels. The technique involves microsurgical exploration of the nerve root entry zone and placement of a prosthetic material (typically Teflon felt) between the offending vessel and the nerve. MVD is most commonly performed for trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm, and glossopharyngeal neuralgia. The procedure requires excellent microsurgical skills and specialized instrumentation.
Usage
Usage note: Also known as Janetta procedure after the pioneering surgeon Peter Jannetta.
In Context
- "Microvascular decompression provided excellent relief of the patient's trigeminal neuralgia." — neurosurgical follow-up
- "The superior cerebellar artery was found compressing the trigeminal nerve during microvascular decompression." — operative findings