The Efficacy and Safety of Microvascular Decompression for Hemifacial Spasm: A Retrospective Analysis of Surgical Outcomes and Complications

Özet

AIM: To determine the efficacy and safety of microvascular decompression (MVD) for hemifacial spasm (HFS) by retrospectivelyreviewing our results.MATERIAL and METHODS: A total of 55 patients who underwent MVD in our clinic between 2003 and 2017 were retrospectivelyanalyzed. Clinical outcome results, recurrence rates, and surgical complications were noted.RESULTS: Thirty-six patients were female (65%). The mean age of the patients was 51.3 years. The mean duration of the complaintwas 46.4 months. In 45 patients (82%), HFS was completely resolved within the first 6 months after the surgery. Five patients(9%) with recurrent symptoms were reoperated within the first year of the surgery. HFS symptoms of five patients (9%) completelyceased initially, but started again and reoperation was required due to failure of alternative treatments. Delayed facial nerve palsyand hearing loss were noted in one patient for each (2%). Cerebrospinal fluid leak was observed in two patients (4%). No mortalitywas observed in this series.CONCLUSION: MVD is a safe and effective option for patients with HFS that is resistant to medical treatment.