Quality of Life of Patients after Micro Vascular Decompression for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Background: Microvascular decompression is a surgery performed to relieve the symptoms (mainly pain) of trigeminal neuralgia. It is a recommended procedure for medically resistant trigeminal neuralgia. The objective of this study is to assess the improvement in quality of life of patients who have undergone microvascular decompression. Method: A retrospective study of 27 patients who have undergone microvascular decompression surgery in Saveetha medical college and hospital during the period December 2014-December 2018 is done with the help of SF-36 questionnaire. Results: This study demonstrates the significant positive impact of microvascular decompression on the quality of life of patients for trigeminal neuralgia other than just pain relief. The mean scores of physical function, social function, emotional health and general health showed remarkable improvement after the surgery. Conclusion: There is a considerable improvement in the functioning ability with respect to social, physical, emotional and general health in patients who have undergone microvascular decompression.