Percutaneous trigeminal nerve radiofrequency rhizotomy guided by computerized tomography fluoroscopy. Technical note

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Trigeminal neuralgia is a debilitating condition requiring effective treatment.
• Percutaneous radiofrequency rhizotomy is an established treatment for trigeminal neuralgia.
• Accurate needle placement is crucial for successful radiofrequency rhizotomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel percutaneous trigeminal radiofrequency rhizotomy procedure.
• To evaluate the efficacy of CT fluoroscopy-guided needle insertion.
• To present the potential benefits of this minimally invasive technique.

Main Methods:

• A new percutaneous trigeminal radiofrequency rhizotomy procedure was developed.
• Computerized tomography (CT) fluoroscopy was utilized for real-time guidance.
• Needle insertion was directed through the foramen ovale to reach the trigeminal nerve branches.

Main Results:

• Ten patients underwent the procedure using the described method.
• The target lesion (foramen ovale) was successfully reached in all ten patients.
• Each patient required only a single needle puncture for successful treatment.

Conclusions:

• CT fluoroscopy-guided percutaneous trigeminal radiofrequency rhizotomy is a feasible and effective technique.
• The procedure allows for precise needle placement with minimal invasiveness.
• This method demonstrates potential advantages for treating trigeminal neuralgia.