Knowledge and use of pericranial nerve blocks in headache treatment in Mexico

In developed countries, most of the neurologists use pericranial nerve blocks to treat headache patients, nevertheless, the knowledge and use patterns of this technique in developing countries are unknown.

Evaluate the knowledge and use patterns of pericranial nerve blocks in headache treatment by Mexican neurologists.

We did a cross-sectional study, 90 Mexican neurologists completed a 26-question survey including data about sociodemographics, knowledge and patterns of use of pericranial nerve blocks. All statistical analyses were performed with R (version 4.2.0).

The mean age was 43.2 + 9.9 years, 55(61.1%) were men. In terms of knowledge, migraine was correctly identified by 74 participants (82.2%), while cluster headache by 65 participants (72.2%) as indications for pericranial nerve blocks. Regarding the use patterns of pericranial nerve blocks, 87(96.7%) of the neurologists had heard about the technique, but only 12(13.3%) use it in their clinical practice. In terms of education, 19(21.1%) received training during the residency and 27(30%) during the post-residency period.

The knowledge and use of pericranial nerve blocks for the treatment of headaches in Mexico is low. Stakeholders should develop strategies to improve the field of headache disorders in Mexico.