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Percutaneous microballoon compression for trigeminal neuralgia
Hong-bing Liu1, Yi Ma, Jian-jun Zou
1Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China.
Background:
Percutaneous microballoon compression (PMC) for trigeminal neuralgia is an important therapeutic method. The aim of this study was to review the effects of PMC for trigeminal neuralgia in 276 patients.
Methods:
From December 2000 to May 2003, 276 patients with trigeminal neuralgia were treated with PMC. The course of the disease ranged from 3 months to 38 years. Under the guidance of C-arm X-ray, 14# needle was placed into the foramen ovale using the classical Hakanson's technique. Fogarty balloon catheter was navigated into the Meckel's cave tenderly. A small amount of Omnipaque was slowly injected to inflate the balloon and compress the trigeminal ganglion for 3 to 10 minutes.
Results:
A total of 290 PMC were performed on the 276 patients. Among them, 252 had immediate relief from pain. The patients were followed up for a mean of 18.7 months (range, 4 to 32), 14 of them had a recurrence. Of the 14 patients, 12 were re-operated with PMC, and the pain was all controlled successfully.
Conclusions:
PMC is an effective and technically simple method for trigeminal neuralgia. For older patients with trigeminal neuralgia, it may be the first choice.
Insights
Percutaneous microballoon compression (PMC) effectively treats trigeminal neuralgia, offering immediate pain relief for most patients. This minimally invasive procedure is a viable option, especially for elderly individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pain Management
Background:
- Trigeminal neuralgia is a debilitating condition requiring effective treatment.
- Percutaneous microballoon compression (PMC) is an established therapeutic approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of PMC in a large cohort of trigeminal neuralgia patients.
- To assess the long-term effectiveness and recurrence rates of PMC.
Main Methods:
- 276 patients with trigeminal neuralgia underwent 290 PMC procedures between 2000 and 2003.
- The Hakanson technique was used to place a needle into the foramen ovale under C-arm guidance.
- A balloon catheter was advanced to Meckel's cave and inflated to compress the trigeminal ganglion.
Main Results:
- Immediate pain relief was achieved in 252 out of 276 patients.
- Mean follow-up was 18.7 months, with a recurrence rate of 5.1% (14 patients).
- 12 of the 14 patients with recurrence were successfully re-treated with PMC.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous microballoon compression (PMC) is an effective and technically straightforward treatment for trigeminal neuralgia.
- PMC demonstrates a high success rate and good long-term pain control.
- This method is a recommended first-line treatment option, particularly for older patients.
