Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that relieves abnormal pressure on cranial nerves. In trigeminal neuralgia, MVD involves making a small opening behind the ear, gently separating the compressing blood vessel from the trigeminal nerve, and placing a soft cushion between them.

At Atlantic Brain and Spine, Dr. Stephen Johnson performs MVD using high-magnification visualization and intraoperative monitoring to protect nerve function. This approach provides the highest rate of long-term pain freedom for trigeminal neuralgia patients—often 80–90% success—without damaging the nerve.