J Korean Neurosurg Soc.
1975 Oct;4(2):323-330.
Percutaneous Radiogrequency Trigeminal Ganglionotomy
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Neurosurgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract
- Percutaneous radiofrequency coagulation of the gasserian ganglion or its posterior root has been used for the patient with trigeminal neuralgia. Controlled lesion can be made selectively in any division of the trigeminal nerve. This procedure has been effective in abolishing pain usually with preservation of touch sensation in the face and added advantage of short hospitalization. In 11 of 12 patients with trigeminal neuralgia, this procedure relieved pain. In one patient, it was inevitable to have intracranial approach due to diffuse fibrosis involving gasserian ganglion and its rot with previous multiple alcohol injections. One patient who suffered from intractable pain due to tongue cancer became pain free. Two patients have developed weakness of the masseter muscle, however it was not troublesome to the patients.