What procedures can be done for trigeminal neuralgia?

Surgical options for trigeminal neuralgia include:

• Microvascular decompression. This procedure involves relocating or removing blood vessels that are in contact with the trigeminal root to stop the nerve from malfunctioning.
• Brain stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma knife).

Are there any new treatments for trigeminal neuralgia?

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a fairly new treatment that uses a concentrated beam of radiation to deliberately damage the trigeminal nerve where it enters the brainstem. Stereotactic radiosurgery does not require a general anaesthetic and no cuts (incisions) are made in your cheek.

What does a neurosurgeon do for trigeminal neuralgia?

The surgical options for trigeminal neuralgia include peripheral nerve blocks or ablation, gasserian ganglion and retrogasserian ablative (needle) procedures, craniotomy followed by microvascular decompression (MVD), and stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife®).

Is Gamma Knife surgery painful?

Gamma Knife surgery is a painless computer-guided treatment that delivers highly focused radiation to tumors and lesions in the brain. Gamma Knife surgery is used to treat brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations, trigeminal neuralgia, acoustic neuroma and tremors.

How effective is Gamma Knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia?

Effective short-term outcomes have been well documented for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) patients treated with Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) with reported success rates of 70–90 \% with median follow-up intervals of 19–75 months.

Does gamma knife surgery work for trigeminal neuralgia?

Gamma Knife treatment provides effective pain relief for 80 to 96 percent of trigeminal neuralgia patients, even five years after the procedure. It also can be repeated.

What happens after gamma knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia?

Immediately following Gamma Knife radiosurgery, most patients feel tired for a day or two. During this time, you may also have a headache and/or nausea. Again, these symptoms are typically transient and mild. However, your doctor can write a prescription for medication to help you feel more comfortable if necessary.

Does Gamma Knife surgery work for trigeminal neuralgia?