Radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of idiopathic bilateral palatal myoclonus: a new indication.
OBJECTIVE
We tested the effect of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of palatal myoclonus refractory to other therapeutic regimens.


METHODS
A 20-year-old patient who presented with palatal myoclonus and annoying rhythmic objective clicking noise was treated with a radiofrequency generator with topical and local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.


RESULTS
The clicking noise was abolished within 3 to 4 days of the radiofrequency ablation. The rhythmic, jerky movements of the soft palate were confirmed to be absent 2 weeks later with electromyographic studies. The patient has been symptom-free for 6 months, and no side effects have occurred.


CONCLUSIONS
As a new indication, radiofrequency ablation may effectively abolish abnormal movements of the soft palate and relieve associated tinnitus.
Aydin
Omer
O
Department of Otolaryngology, Kocaeli University Medical Faculty, Kocaeli, Turkey.
Iseri
Mete
M
Ozturk
Murat
M
D000328:Adult; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods*; D004576:Electromyography; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D009207:Myoclonus / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D010160:Palate, Soft / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*