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Updated: May 30, 2025

Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
[Trigeminal neuralgia - Overview].
Olafur Arni Sveinsson1, Enrico Bernardo Arkink2, Elfar Ulfarsson3
1University Iceland, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.
Trigeminal neuralgia, a common cause of facial pain in those over 50, presents as sudden, electric shock-like pain. This review covers its epidemiology, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments like medication and surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Trigeminal neuralgia is a primary cause of facial pain in adults over 50.
- It significantly impacts patients' quality of life.
- Incidence rates are approximately 4-5 cases per 100,000 individuals annually.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of trigeminal neuralgia.
- To cover epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological studies.
- Summary of current understanding of pathogenesis.
- Overview of diagnostic criteria and clinical symptoms.
- Review of established and emerging treatments.
Main Results:
- Incidence increases with age, peaking between 50-70 years.
- Pain is characterized by sudden, electric shock-like sensations, often triggered by stimuli.
- Vascular compression of the trigeminal nerve is the most common cause.
- Multiple sclerosis and tumors are other potential causes.
Conclusions:
- Trigeminal neuralgia requires accurate diagnosis and timely management.
- Treatment options include pharmacotherapy (e.g., carbamazepine) and surgical interventions.
- Further research may elucidate more targeted treatment strategies.
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