How I do it: endoscopic microvascular decompression for glossopharyngeal neuralgia.

Abstract

Microvascular decompression (MVD) for glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN) is associated with high complication and incomplete cure rates because of its poor ability to visualize neurovascular conflicts. Fully endoscopic MVD for GPN was carried out through a retrosigmoid keyhole approach. Neurovascular conflicts were clearly demonstrated with a loop of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) under a 30° endoscopic view, and no significant cerebellar retraction was observed. The loop of the PICA was safely decompressed and the perforators were preserved while offering an excellent operative view. Endoscopic MVD is a reliable and minimally invasive method for GPN.