Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2015 , Vol 25 , Num 1
Percutaneous Controlled Radiofrequency Trigeminal Rhizotomy for the Treathment of Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia: The First 5-Year Follow-up Results to 59 Patients
Mustafa BALEVİ
Konya Numune Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi, Beyin ve Sinir Cerrahisi Kliniği, Konya, Türkiye AIM: The objective of this study was to evaluate the eff ectiveness of percutaneous, controlled radiofrequency trigeminal rhizotomy (RF-TR). The outcome of 59 patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia after RF-TR was analyzed after a follow-up period of 1 to 5 years.

MATERIAL and METHODS: A total of 59 patients with idiopathic unilateral trigeminal neuralgia underwent 66 percutaneous radiofrequency rhizotomy procedures between 2007 and 2014.Benzodiazepines and narcotic analgesics were used for anesthesia because patient cooperation during the procedures was essential so that the physician could create selective, controlled lesions.

RESULTS: The average follow-up time was 60 months Acute pain relief was accomplished in 95% of patients. Complete pain relief was achieved at 5 years in 60% of the patients who underwent a single procedure. No mortalities occurred. After the first procedure was performed, early pain recurrence (<6 month) was observed in 6 patients (%10.2). Complications included diminished korneal refl ex in one patients (%1.7), Masseterweakness in 2 (%3.4), dysesthesia in 1 (%1,7).

CONCLUSION: Percutaneous, controlled RF-TR represents a minimally invasive, low-risk technique with a high rate of eff icacy. The procedure may safely be repeated if pain recurs. Anahtar Kelimeler : Pain, Percutaneous procedures, Radiofrequency thermocoagulation, Rhizotomy, Trigeminal nerve, Trigeminal neuralgia