Ring graft technique for microvascular decompression.

INTRODUCTION: Various nerve compression syndromes, such as trigeminal neuralgia (TN), glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GN), and hemifacial spasm (HFS), are caused by compression of the concerned nerve by the adjacent vessel. Patients who do not respond to medical management are usually treated by "microvascular decompression (MVD) of the nerve." Teflon patch graft is the most commonly used material for MVD. This graft has been used in various shapes like a patch, in the shredded form, or as a sling. This is done to prevent recurrence because of graft failure. We used a teflon ring graft to perform a successful MVD in 10 patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Out of 10 cases, 6 cases were of TN, 2 of HFS, 1 of GN, and 1 case was of cochleovestibular nerve compression syndrome (CNCS). After MVD, every patient underwent a follow up assessment for 5 years.

RESULTS: There was no major postoperative complication, except in the patient with CNCS who suffered from a temporary episode of facial palsy. All cases were symptom free at a follow-up duration of equal to or more than 5 years.

CONCLUSION: Ring teflon graft may be used as an alternative as well as a safe method to perform MVD and has a good success rate.