[Keyhole Craniotomy and Closure for Trigeminal Neuralgia and Facial Spasms]

Facial spasms and trigeminal neuralgia are functional diseases, which have alternative treatment options. The working space for each pathology can be obtained by a routine approach to the caudal and rostral sides of the cerebellum and can be provided through a small craniotomy, because CSF drainage provides sufficient space for manipulation. However, it is necessary to expose fully the structures that define the operative field, such as the margins of the venous sinuses. Familiarity with the muscular anatomy required for exposure is also important.