TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA TREATMENT OPTIONS

• Medical Management - includes anticonvulsants (canbamezapine, lomotrigene, phenytoin) muscle relaxants (baclofen) and others (gabapentin, pregabalin)
• Percutaneous Procedures - Radio frequency ablation, ballon compression and chemical neurolysis.
• Surgical Management - Microvascular decompression in case of vascular loop around trigeminal ganglion.

Radiofrequency ablation for trigeminal neuralgia

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be used to treat trigeminal neuralgia. During the procedure, a thin needle electrode is inserted through the skin and into the trigeminal nerve. The electrode produces a heat lesion that damages the nerve and stops the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

RFA is often used in cases where medication and other treatments have failed to provide relief. It is also considered to be a low-risk procedure with a high success rate.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation, and it takes about an hour to complete. Patients may experience some discomfort during the procedure, but pain medication can be administered to help manage this.

After the procedure, patients may experience some swelling and discomfort in the treated area, but this usually resolves within a few days. Pain relief can be immediate, but it may take up to a few weeks for the full effects of the procedure to be felt.

Overall, RFA can be an effective treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia, but it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right option for you.

Ballon compression vs RFA for trigeminal neuralgia

Both balloon compression and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are minimally invasive surgical procedures used to treat trigeminal neuralgia. However, the two procedures work in different ways and have their own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Balloon compression involves inserting a small balloon through a needle into the space between the trigeminal nerve and a blood vessel that is compressing it. The balloon is then inflated, compressing the blood vessel and damaging the nerve fibers responsible for transmitting pain signals. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or general anaesthesia, and patients typically experience immediate pain relief.

RFA, on the other hand, involves using a thin needle electrode to produce a heat lesion that damages the trigeminal nerve and stops the transmission of pain signals. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and patients may experience immediate or delayed pain relief.

The choice between the two procedures depends on the individual case and the preferences of the patient and healthcare provider. Balloon compression is often preferred for younger patients and those with mild symptoms and in case of ophthalmic division (v1) involvement, while RFA may be preferred for older patients or those with more severe symptoms.

Both procedures carry some risks, such as infection, bleeding, or temporary numbness or weakness in the face. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of both procedures with a healthcare provider to determine which one is the best option for you.

Dr Anshul Agrawal

Spasrh spine & pain centre

303, Royal glory building

29-30 sum no 54, Sayaji square,

Indore - 452016

Helpline 7011156044, 07313561340

www.spinepaincentre.com