Peripheral neurectomy: minimally invasive surgical modality for trigeminal neuralgia in Indian population: a retrospective analysis of 20 cases

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the efficacy of peripheral neurectomy in 20 cases of trigeminal neuralgia as minimally invasive surgical treatment modality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Twenty (12 males and 8 females) patients with trigeminal neuralgia aged between 35 and 68 years (mean 48 years), who had undergone peripheral neurectomy, were retrospectively analyzed for relief of pain, complications, recurrence of pain, and any additional procedure required to treat recurrence, in a follow-up period of 36 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

There was no significant intra-operative and post-operative complications. There was recurrence of pain in two patients (10 %) in 24 and 28 months post-operative follow-up respectively, whereas, rest of the 18 patients were symptom free during 36 months follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

Peripheral neurectomy is one of the minimally invasive and expeditious forms of surgical modality for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia. This treatment option is cost effective and provides long term relief from neuralgic pain.

KEYWORDS:

Facial pain; Neurectomy; Tic douloureux; Trigeminal neuralgia