Radiofrequency thermocoagulation to trigeminal ganglion guided by C-arm for intractable trigeminal neuralgesia

Objective To investigate the effects and safe of radiofrequency thermocoagulation to trigeminal ganglion for intractable trigeminal neuralgesia.Methods Fourty-seven patients with intractable trigeminal neuralgesia were involved in this study.The neuralgesia presented of branch Ⅱwith branchⅠand Ⅲ or all three branches.The target puncture was guided by C-arm scanning with ovale foramen income.The temperature of radiofrequency tip was 75-90℃.Results The excellenct results were achieved in 46 cases,improvement in 1 cases,and the total effective rate was 100% without any severe complication.The follow-up of 42 cases was carried out for 3 to 18 months and there was no recurrence.Conclusion The radiofrequency thermocoagulation to trigeminal ganglion guided by C-arm is effective to intractable trigeminal neuralgesia with accurate orientation.The improved method is safe.