The anatomical factors in development of trigeminal neuralgia and its relapses after microvascular decompression

Objective: to examine the anatomical features of posterior cranial fossa which can pay a significant role in development of trigeminal neuralgia and its relapses after microvascular decompression . Material and methods: Our study includes 37 patients at the age from 22 till 83 years old and 10 healthy volunteers in control group. The anatomical parameters of trigeminal roots and pontomesencephalic cistern were assessed using the images obtained with the help of Т2 3D-CISS and FIESTA. Results: the measurement of cross-section area of pontomesencephalic cistern and intertrigeminal angle at patients were significantly differed while comparing with control group. The measurement of anteroposterior dimension of pontomesencephalic cistern and length of trigeminal root at the side of pain syndrome in case of trigeminal neuralgia were smaller comparing with “health” side. The small sizes and asymmetry of pontomesencephalic cistern as well as short intercisternal part of trigeminal root and huge intertrigeminal angle at the pathological side were revealed at patients with pain syndrome relapses. Conclusion: The following anatomical features as small sizes and asymmetry of pontomesencephalic cistern and short trigeminal root at the side of pain syndrome are the predisposing factors for development of trigeminal neuralgia and may be the prognostic factors for itsrelapses.

тригеминальная невралгия, микроваскулярная декомпрессия, нейроваскулярный конфликт, задняя черепная ямка, trigeminal neuralgia, microvascular decompression, neurovascular conflict, posterior cranial fossa

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