Long-term outcome of percutaneous thermocoagulation for trigeminal neuralgia

A retrospective analysis of long-term efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the trigeminal ganglion or root for the relief of trigeminal neuralgia was carried out in our unit. From the medical records and questionnaires, outcomes of 108 procedures performed in 81 patients from January 1986 to December 1990 were obtained with a follow-up period of 6-11 years. The initial success rate was 87% and the probability of remaining pain-free 1, 2 and 11 years after the procedure was 65, 49 and 26%, respectively. Patients with typical symptoms had a better long-term efficacy than those with atypical presentations, and patients who had not undergone a previous surgical procedure also had a better outcome. There was no mortality in this series. Common adverse effects included dysaesthesia in 20 patients, corneal numbness in 12 patients and masseter weakness in three patients.