Finding a qualified surgeon can sometimes feel like an impossible task. This search can become especially confusing when you seek out someone to perform a highly specialized procedure, such as decompression surgery. The last thing you want to worry about, though, is whether you have made the right decision when selecting your surgeon. Using tried-and-true guidelines, and taking advantage of the vast network of referrals and ratings sites, you will have no trouble finding the best neurosurgeon to perform your trigeminal neuralgia decompression surgery.
What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia (TGN) is a fairly rare condition that affects the fifth cranial nerve, leading to debilitating pain and discomfort; it occurs almost always in just one side of the face. An estimated 1 in every 8,300 people are diagnosed with this neurological disorder every year. Trigeminal neuralgia has been difficult to diagnose, and even more difficult to treat, in past years. Luckily, great advances in modern medicine and microsurgical techniques have changed that statistic. TGN can now be identified and treated, resulting in symptoms that are lessened to manageable levels or, in many cases, eliminated completely.
What Is TGN Decompression Surgery?
Trigeminal neuralgia decompression surgery is a minimally invasive procedure performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon first starts with a small craniotomy, creating a modestly sized “window” at the base of the skull, which allows endoscopic access to the fifth cranial nerve and adjacent structures. The surgeon then isolates the affected structures (in this case the trigeminal nerve and the offending blood vessel). Once isolated, the blood vessel is carefully lifted and a tiny Teflon sponge is placed between the nerve and vessel, effectively insulating against further contact. Once in place, this sponge will absorb the impact from the blood being pumped through the vein or artery, eliminating the source of the trigeminal nerve’s irritation. The skull is then repaired. Healing after the surgery usually takes 3 to 4 weeks.
What Type of Doctor Should I Seek for My Trigeminal Neuralgia Decompression Surgery?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a highly focused issue because just one set of nerves is affected. This condition requires a specialist with a specific set of skills — namely an incredibly well-rounded familiarity with associated structures and the ability to perform TGN decompression surgery successfully. The specialized surgeon should be able to perform the surgery carefully, with minimal tissue trauma and in a manner that will bring about long-term relief.
First and foremost, you should always seek out the help of a facial neurosurgeon who has vast experience with treating facial pain disorders surgically. In theory, all neurosurgeons are qualified to perform all neurosurgical procedures, but it is far from the truth in practice. Just like you would not want to have your refrigerator repaired by a diesel mechanic, neither should you settle for a surgeon who does not specialize in TGN decompression surgery. Below are some of the qualities you must look for when seeking a facial neurosurgeon to perform your surgery.
- Board certification. Any surgeons, regardless of specialty, should hold board certification in their specialized area(s) of medicine. If they are not board certified, keep looking. Board certification is critical because it proves that the doctor in question has shown a high level of expertise in a chosen area and is up-to-date on the latest advances. It also requires periodic renewal, ensuring that the doctor is well informed and trained in the newest techniques in that field.
- Proven track record in performing TGN Decompression Surgery. Do not hesitate to ask how many TGN decompression surgeries your prospective neurosurgeon has performed, and what his or her success rate is. Were there any unusual surgically related complications? How many patients have found significant relief? Does the neurosurgeon have a list of past patients who are willing to be contacted for references?
- Clear, open communication. This qualification may sound trite, but it is extremely important. You must have a doctor and staff who communicate clearly with you, answering any questions and providing you with information they feel is important. You have a right to know exactly what is happening with your body and your health. If you encounter a doctor who is hesitant to provide you with information and resources, take note of this red flag and look elsewhere for a doctor you can rely on and trust.
- Availability. Your TGN decompression surgeon should be accessible to you from the first consultation until after your surgery and post-op recovery. This neurosurgeon should be willing to return calls in a timely manner and see you as needed. Your relationship with your surgeon should also be fluid: You should not feel as though you must jump through hoops or evade administrative staff to get in touch with him or her. Do not hesitate to ask if the doctor will be available to answer questions and address TGN decompression surgery-related concerns before and after the procedure.
Armed with the right information, locating your perfect surgeon should be an interesting and educational process — not one that leaves you tearing out your hair in frustration. Do not settle for “good enough” when your health is at stake — you deserve the best care available.
