Idiopathic hemifacial spasm treated with alcohol injection: a case report

A case of idiopathic hemifacial spasm is presented. Review of the literature shows that systemic medical treatment has been of little value in relieving this condition. Many neurosurgical techniques are now available but there is a significant incidence of recurrence. Also, not all patients desire such surgery nor may they be good surgical candidates. There is the inherent tendency for postoperative morbidity and surgical complications. After proper neurological and otological examination, alcohol injection is a safe and simple office procedure that can be used effectively in the relief of hemifacial spasm.