Peripheral Occipital Nerve Decompression Surgery in Migraine Headache.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Occipital migraines present diagnostic challenges due to overlapping symptoms and unclear pathophysiology.
• Current medical management for occipital migraines is often complex and ineffective.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of surgical treatments for occipital migraines.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
• Included studies focused on peripheral occipital nerve surgery for diagnosed migraines, occipital neuralgia, or tension headaches.

Main Results:

• Nine studies encompassing 1046 patients were included in the review.
• Post-surgical positive response rates, defined as >50% reduction in headaches, ranged from 80.0% to 94.9%.

Conclusions:

• Surgical therapy for chronic occipital migraines has demonstrated effectiveness and safety over decades.
• Additional robust evidence is required to solidify surgical intervention as a standard treatment option.