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Updated: Jun 13, 2026
09:35
Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
Secondary chronic cluster headache due to trigeminal nerve root compression
Christer Mjåset1, M B Russell, M Bjørn Russell
1Head and Neck Research Group, Research Centre, Department of Neurology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway. chmja@online.no
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|April 14, 2010
Summary
Vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve root can cause chronic cluster headaches and burning tongue sensations. Microvascular decompression surgery effectively relieved these symptoms, offering persistent relief.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Cluster headaches can present with atypical symptoms.
- Trigeminal nerve compression is a potential cause of facial pain.
Observation:
- A 50-year-old woman experienced chronic headache and burning tongue sensation, evolving into cluster headaches.
- Cerebral MRI revealed vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve root.
Findings:
- Microvascular decompression surgery successfully treated the patient's cluster headaches, intermittent headaches, and burning tongue sensation.
- Symptomatic relief was sustained at a 1-year follow-up.
Implications:
- Cerebral MRI angiography is recommended for patients with atypical cluster headache symptoms to identify underlying causes.
- Microvascular decompression is an effective treatment for cluster headaches caused by trigeminal nerve compression.
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