[Selective radiofrequency thermocoagulation for trigeminal neuralgia].

OBJECTIVE

To study the technique and experience of selective radiofrequency thermocoagulation (SRFTC) for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and the application of neuronavigation in SRFTC for TN.

METHODS

SRFTC was performed in 3269 TN patients and neuronavigation-assisted SRFTC in 36 of them. Follow-up was carried out for over 2 years in 1722 cases.

RESULTS

An excellent efficacy was achieved in 2590 cases, a fair outcome in 548 cases and no response in 131 cases. The recurrence rates at one and two years were 10.5% and 25.0% respectively. The efficacy was excellent in all cases treated by neuronavigation-assisted SRFTC. The effective rate was 96%. Neither serious complication nor death occurred in this series.

CONCLUSION

SRFTC for TN is both safe and effective. And the neuronavigation technique can not only increase the surgical efficacy of SRFTCP for TN but also decrease the surgical risks.