Surgical Treatment of Hemifacial Spasm via Microvascular Decompression of a Large, ECTATIC Vertebral Artery

Here, we demonstrate our microsurgical decompression of a large, ecstatic vertebral artery as a treatment for intractable hemifacial spasm in a 52-year-old female. Using bovine pericardium, we created a sling which was placed around the vessel and used to elevate the vessel by attaching it to the petrous dura with a single small straight aneurysm clip. Successful decompression of the facial nerve was confirmed via resolution of the lateral spread response seen on the intraoperative EMG.

Publication History

Article published online:
01 February 2023