Percutaneous radio frequency gangliolysis in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.

37 procedures were carried out in 32 patients with trigeminal neuralgia who were unrelieved by anticonvulsants. Initial relief was achieved in 31 patients (98%). 5 patients (16%) suffered a relapse during a follow-up period of 15-26 months. Corneal anaesthesia occurred in 6 patients, 1 of whom subsequently developed a corneal ulcer. Anaesthesia dolorosa appeared in 5 patients. Ipsilateral reduction in hearing was reported by 2 patients. Despite its limits and complications percutaneous radio frequency gangliolysis is an effective alternative in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.