Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment
三叉神经痛治疗
Duration
5-7 days (hospital stay)
Recovery
2-4 weeks
Savings
~83% vs US
Average savings compared to US prices
Surgical treatment for trigeminal neuralgia including microvascular decompression (MVD) and percutaneous procedures. China's neurosurgery departments perform high volumes of MVD surgery with excellent pain relief rates exceeding 90%. These procedures offer lasting relief for patients suffering from severe facial pain that has not responded to medication.
Diagnostic Workup
High-resolution MRI with CISS/FIESTA sequences to identify vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve, neurological examination, and medication history review.
Duration: 1-2 daysPre-operative Planning
Surgical planning based on imaging to identify the offending vessel, anesthesia consultation, and discussion of surgical approach (MVD vs. percutaneous options for elderly patients).
Duration: 1 dayMicrovascular Decompression Surgery
Through a small retrosigmoid craniotomy, the surgeon identifies the compressing vessel and places a Teflon pad between the vessel and trigeminal nerve root to relieve compression.
Duration: 2-3 hoursPost-operative Recovery
Hospital monitoring for 3-5 days, pain assessment, hearing evaluation, and gradual medication tapering as pain relief is confirmed.
Duration: 3-5 days- Over 90% initial pain relief rate with MVD
- Long-lasting results — 80% pain-free at 10 years
- Addresses the root cause of nerve compression
- Significantly lower surgical costs than Western centers
- General surgical risks (infection, bleeding, anesthesia complications)
- Hearing loss on the affected side (1-2% risk)
- Facial numbness if nerve is damaged during surgery
- 5-10% recurrence rate over 10 years
Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.