[Efficacy of C1-C2 block with posterior parasagittal approach in the treatment of Arnold neuralgia in 24 patients].

UNLABELLED: The purpose of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of C1-C2 block from a posterior parasagittal approach to treat Arnold neuralgia.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

24 patients have been interviewed after 33 blocks were performed. The mean delay was 22 months. The posterior approach had always been performed using fluoroscopy. 27 blocks were performed with Hydrocortancyl((R)), 6 with Altim((R)).

RESULTS

71% of patients were symptomatically improved after one month, 62% after 3 months and more than 50% after one year. Using a visual analogue scale, pain was reduced of 5.8, i.e. 70% of patients were improved. An important reduction of pain killer requirements was noted for improved patients, patients with pain recurrence asked for a new infiltration. No significant side effect was noted.

CONCLUSION

Our method seems to be an efficient alternative to blocks performed on the origin of the nerve and to surgical treatment.