Microsurgical posterior fossa re-exploration for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia after previous microvascular decompression: common grounds-scarring, deformation, and the "piston effect".

Posterior fossa re-exploration avoiding manipulation to the trigeminal nerve, such as pinching or combing, may be a useful treatment option for recurrent TN after previously successful MVD providing pain relief in the majority of patients with a low rate of new hypaesthesia.