TN News: Treatment

The primary option for treating TN (trigeminal neuralgia) is called a microvascular decompression. The surgeon approaches the brain from a small hole in the base of the skull, finds blood vessels pushing on the trigeminal nerve, and removes or re-routes the blood vessels. After this the surgeon places a teflon "cushion" between your nerve and the blood vessels. Yes, that's teflon like the non-stick coating on your pans!

Source: Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia

Dr. Clyde provides a great explanation of microvascular decompression above. Side effects following the surgery may include facial numbness or lack of muscle tone/control in the affected region(s) of the face. The surgery is not always a success, but many people are able to find relief from their symptoms with this surgery. However it is important to note that this surgery only works if the nerve is being compressed by a blood vessel! If your pain is caused by another source, you may need to explore other treatment options.

Sources:
  Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia (November 2, 2010). Retrieved May 10, 2015, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYpWgeC3K-s