Repeated percutaneous balloon compression for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia: a long-term study

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Pain Management
• Neurology

Background:

• Percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) is an established treatment for trigeminal neuralgia.
• Clinical outcomes of repeat PBC procedures for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia remain underreported.
• This study addresses the gap in knowledge regarding repeat PBC efficacy and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of repeat percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia.
• To assess complication rates associated with repeat PBC procedures.
• To analyze long-term efficacy and recurrence patterns after repeat PBC.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 32 patients who underwent repeat PBC for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia.
• Patients were followed for a mean of 6.43 years post-procedure.
• Data collected included pain relief, complication rates, and symptom recurrence.

Main Results:

• Immediate pain relief was achieved in 93.8% of patients following repeat PBC.
• No major complications, including diplopia or anesthesia dolorosa, were observed.
• Symptom recurrence was observed in 43.3% of patients over an 8-year period, with a slightly higher rate than initial PBC.

Conclusions:

• Repeat percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) is a safe and effective treatment for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia.
• The procedure demonstrates a high success rate with a low incidence of severe complications.
• Repeated PBC is a recommended option for patients with refractory trigeminal neuralgia, despite a slightly increased recurrence rate.