Clinical application of radiofrequency thermocoagulation for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia in the el-derly

Objective To further study the techniques of percutaneous puncture, the temperature, as well as the dosage used during the radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy for treatment of elderly patient with trigeminal neuralgia. Methods The therapeutic effects of the radiofrequency thermocoagulation in the treatment of 620 patients aged 60～76 years (average 67.3) were retrospectively analyzed. Anterior Hartel approach technique was adopted in the treatment. After the trigeminal ganglion was accurately reached, coagulation with temperature of 60～75℃ for 0.5～1.0 minute was carried out, for up to 2 to 4 times. Results The total effective rate was 91.3%, none of these patients died during the treatment. Complications were rare. The recurrence rate was 21.8% within a 7 year follow up period. Conclusion Radiofrequency thermocoagulation is an effective and safe therapeutic option in the treatment of elderly patient with trigeminal neuralgia.