Electromagnetic navigation-guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation in trigeminal neuralgia: technical note with three...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Devices
• Pain Management

Background:

• Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic pain condition.
• Radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFT) is a treatment option for TN.
• Accurate targeting of the trigeminal ganglion is crucial for RFT efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel electromagnetic navigation (EMN)-guided RFT device and procedure.
• To evaluate the efficacy and accuracy of EMN-guided RFT for TN treatment.

Main Methods:

• The EMN system comprises an electromagnetic localizer, a thermoplastic facial mask with fiducial markers, and navigation software.
• A modified surgical interface integrating the foramen ovale (FO) and trigeminal ganglion (TG) was utilized.
• The procedure was applied to three patients diagnosed with TN.

Main Results:

• EMN guidance enabled successful and accurate cannulation of the FO on the first attempt.
• Patients experienced no recurrence of pain during the follow-up period.
• Appropriate trigeminal sensory paresthesia was elicited, with no surgery-related complications.

Conclusions:

• The EMN system demonstrates effectiveness and high accuracy for RFT in primary TN.
• Modifications to the registration system and surgical interface enhance the simplicity and precision of the RFT procedure.