[Neurovascular decompression for hemifacial spasm]

Thirty-six cases of hemifacial spasm were treated by neurovascular decompression. Via transposterior cranial fossa approach, a small incision was made behind the ear. After careful dissection, a piece of teflon was placed between the vessel and initial segment of the facial nerve root and fixed with silver clip after wrapping of the nerve root. The cases were free from tic immediately after operation. Follow-up of 34 cases for 1 month to 3.5 years showed no recurrence and less and mild operative complications. In this series physiological function of the facial nerve was kept well and there was no mortality. This operation is regarded as the first choice in the treatment of hemifacial spasm.