Long-term results of percutaneous gasserian ganglion lesions

Percutaneous radiofrequency lesion of the Gasserian ganglion was performed between 1974 and 1984 in ninety-eight patients for the relief of trigeminal neuralgia. The average follow-up period was 4.5 years. Age, sex, and duration of illness were unrelated to outcome. Satisfactory analgesia was achieved in 68 patients. Thirty-one percent had return of pain (30 cases). Recurrent neuralgia occurred most frequently during first postoperative year (46%). Patients with marked sensory deficits had a reduced risk of recurrence. Postoperative complications included: reduced or absent corneal reflex (18 cases), corneal keratitis (3 cases) and anesthesia dolorosa (2 cases).