Brad, I'm sorry I can't offer any advice regarding surgery as I haven't had it. I have both typical and atypical TN and I'm treating with meds. I'm too skeptical to consider surgery because of the side effects and there's no guarantee that it will do anything for the atypical pain, which you know. I know that Dr. Casey is in Detroit and he has an excellent reputation. I don't know of anyone from UM. Hopefully some of the others will post their experience.
I wish you the best outcome and I hope you'll post about your experience. Take care!