Conventional Radiofrequency of the Peripheral Branches of the Trigeminal Nerve versus Conventional Radiofrequency of the Gasserian Ganglion for Treatment of Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia

Background: Trigeminal neuralgia (TGN) is the most prevalent kind of neuralgia. Conventional radiofrequency (CRF) of the Gasserian ganglion provides the highest rate of total pain alleviation. CRF of the peripheral trigeminal branches is considered a minimally invasive and safe operation. The aim of this work was to compare the safety and efficacy of CRF for the peripheral trigeminal branches with CRF of the Gasserian ganglion for treating idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITGN).

Methods: This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted on 60 cases aged 21-65 years, with confirmed diagnosis of ITGN, refractory to medications for TGN for an adequate period. Patients were subdivided in to two groups: group I (study group): 30 cases underwent CRF of the peripheral trigeminal branches and group II (control group): 30 cases underwent CRF of the Gasserian ganglion. All patients were subjected to history taking, physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain.

Results: NRS and barrow neurological institute (BNI) pain intensity scale were insignificantly different between both groups at all times of measurements. Pain relief and patients’ satisfaction were insignificantly different at all measurements between both groups. The incidence of numbness and ccomplications were insignificantly different between both groups.

Conclusions: Peripheral nerve branches CRF is a safe and effective procedure as gasserian ganglion CRF for treatment of ITGN.