A comparision of percutaneous radiofrequency trigeminal neurolysis and microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve for the treatment of tic douloureux.
In a 36-month period, 103 consecutive patients have been treated for classical trigeminal neuralgia with either percutaneous radiofrequency trigeminal neurolysis (PTN) (48 patients) or microvascular decompression (MVD) via a suboccipital craniectomy (55 patients). The results of these two procedures are tabulated, emphasizing especially the complications that have occurred with each. Successful initial relief of pain was achieved in 88% of the patients with PTN and 96% of the patients with MVD. Two significant complications occurred in the former group. Severe recurrences have occurred to date in 13% of the patients with PTN and in 5% of those with MVD. It is concluded that both procedures are effective, but that microvascular decompression offers the advantage of avoiding sensory loss and associated dysesthetic sensations. Follow-up is too short to conclude that MVD is a curative procedure, but the early results are very encouraging.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D008833:Microcirculation / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011846:Radio Waves / Q000009:adverse effects; D012008:Recurrence; D014276:Trigeminal Nerve / Q000098:blood supply; D014277:Trigeminal Neuralgia / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures