Percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizolysis in the management of trigeminal neuralgia

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the outcome and complications of Percutaneous Retrogasserian Glycerol Rhizolysis [PRGR] in intractable trigeminal neuralgia. The patients who were poor risk for anesthesia [e.g. old age] with side effect of medical treatment or with intractable pain despite medical treatment for at least six months underwent PRGR. Forty-one patients were included in the study. They were followed for relief of pain and any complications for at least six months. The mean age of the patients was 59 years with a male to female ratio of 11.6. The distribution of pain was most common in V2 territory. The duration of pain was more than one year in 80% of the patients. Prompt pain relief occurred in 34 [83%] patients. Recurrence of pain occurred in 8 [19%]. Six [14%] patients developed Dysesthesia of face. Corneal sensations were affected in five [11%] patients but none developed corneal ulcers. Mastication was affected in two patients and one developed bradycardia, which responded to conservative treatment. None of the patients developed herpes or anesthesia of face. PRGR is an effective procedure in relieving intractable trigeminal neuralgia with few complications, especially in elderly patients and those with intractable pain