Abstract:Objective : To study the recent surgical method and results of micro-vascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia, to improve surgical successful rate. Method: We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients undergoing surgical exploration via posterior cranial fossa for primary trigeminal neuralgia between Jan., 1990 and Dec, 2003. Micro-vascular decompression operations were applied in 19 cases. Endoscopic technique was used to assist the operation in 1 case. Results: MRI showed abnormal vessels adjacent to the pons in 11 cases. Vascular compression was noticed in the root entry zone in 19 cases (arterial in 16, venous in 3). Immediate postoperative total pain relief was achieved in 17 cases. Conclusions: Micro-vascular decompression operation is safe and effective for the patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia.