Glycerol disconnects the portion of the nerve that carries the pain. Because the location of the glycerol cannot be precisely controlled after injection, the results are somewhat unpredictable. The surgeon places a balloon in the trigeminal nerve through a catheter. The balloon is inflated where fibers produce pain. The balloon compresses the nerve, injuring the pain-causing fibers.
Complications can be minor numbness, eye infection, chewing problems, or double vision.
This opening exposes the trigeminal nerve at its connection with the brain. After the nerve is freed from compression, it is protected with a small sponge. The major benefit of MVD is that it causes little or no facial numbness. Major disadvantages of this procedure are the risks of general anesthesia and of undergoing an operation near the brain. Some patients want to try holistic therapies such as acupuncture, nutrition, and biofeedback.