Microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia: update

Psychological assessment in patients affected by trigeminal neuralgia. A systematic review

The aim of the present study was to conduct a systematic review regarding the presence and type of psychological comorbidities in patients with trigeminal neuralgia and to determine the potential impact of surgical treatments on these conditions. We reviewed the literature following PRISMA guidelines to identify and critically examine relevant studies. The review question was formulated according to the PICO framework as follows: "For patients affected by trigeminal neuralgia (P) undergoing neuropsychological assessments (I) and potentially undergoing reassessment after surgical treatment (C), is there a correlation between psychological issues and trigeminal neuralgia, and does the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia improve psychological well-being (O)?". The literature search yielded a total of 316 results. After removing duplicates (n = 73), 243 papers were screened. Following title and abstract screening, 222 records were excluded. Ultimately, 11 studies were deemed relevant to the research purpose. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review highlighting the significant psychological burden of trigeminal neuralgia, including higher risks of sleep, depressive, and anxiety disorders. Surgical treatments effectively alleviate both pain and psychological symptoms, and multidisciplinary approaches combining psychological support and neuro-rehabilitation with medical or surgical care yield better outcomes. Standardizing psychological assessment and treatment methodologies is crucial for optimizing trigeminal neuralgia management. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.

Efficacy and safety of a third stereotactic radiosurgery for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia: an international, multicenter study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) is a debilitating facial pain disorder, often necessitating surgical interventions when medication proves insufficient. Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is an established therapeutic option. Limited studies explored the feasibility of a third SRS procedure. Our study investigates the safety and efficacy of a third SRS procedure for recurrent TN.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis across multiple centers using databases collected prospectively. Pain status was evaluated utilizing the BNI Pain Intensity Scales. The Kaplan-Meier method was employed to estimate the time to recurrence, with group comparisons conducted using log-rank tests. Associations were explored using Chi-square and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Ten institutions contributed with a total of 35 patients. A third SRS revealed sustained effectiveness with a pain control rate of 82.7%. The median time to recurrence was 35.5 months. New sensory dysfunction following the third procedure occurred in 22% of patients who had preserved sensory function after the second procedure. When considering those who developed sensory dysfunction after the second procedure, 40% of the entire cohort was affected. There were no significant differences in pain recurrence intervals among the three procedures. A meta-analysis, combining data from previous studies, showed that 89.6% of patients achieved some degree of pain control after a third SRS, with 27.4% experiencing new sensory dysfunction and a median time to recurrence of 31.6 months.

CONCLUSION

Our study, the largest on the topic, affirms the sustained effectiveness of a third SRS for TN, providing comparable pain relief to initial procedures. Notably, an extended pain-free interval after the third SRS session was observed. Facial sensory dysfunction emerged as the primary side effect. Larger studies are warranted to explore correlations with demographics and treatment parameters for a comprehensive understanding of repeat SRS in managing recurrent TN.

Preoperative Opioid Use and Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Microvascular Decompression for Trigeminal Neuralgia

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The prescription of opioid analgesics for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is controversial, and their effect on postoperative outcomes for patients with TN undergoing microvascular decompression (MVD) has not been reported. We aimed to describe the relationship between preoperative opioid use and postoperative outcomes in patients with TN undergoing MVD.

METHODS

We reviewed the records of 920 patients with TN at our institution who underwent an MVD between 2007 and 2020. Patients were sorted into 2 groups based on preoperative opioid usage. Demographic information, comorbidities, characteristics of TN, preoperative medications, pain and numbness outcomes, and recurrence data were recorded and compared between groups. Multivariate ordinal regression, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and Cox proportional hazards were used to assess differences in pain outcomes between groups.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-five (15.8%) patients in this study used opioids preoperatively. Patients who used opioids preoperatively were younger ( P = .04), were more likely to have a smoking history ( P < .001), experienced greater pain in modified Barrow Neurological Institute pain score at final follow-up ( P = .001), and were more likely to experience pain recurrence ( P = .01). In addition, patients who used opioids preoperatively were more likely to also have been prescribed TN medications including muscle relaxants and antidepressants preoperatively ( P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). On multivariate regression, opioid use was an independent risk factor for greater postoperative pain at final follow-up ( P = .006) after controlling for variables including female sex and age. Opioid use was associated with shorter time to pain recurrence on Kaplan-Meier analysis ( P = .005) and was associated with increased risk for recurrence on Cox proportional hazards regression ( P = .008).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative opioid use in the setting of TN is associated with worse pain outcomes and increased risk for pain recurrence after MVD. These results indicate that opioids should be prescribed cautiously for TN and that worse post-MVD outcomes may occur in patients using opioids preoperatively.

The outcomes of microvascular decompression for primary trigeminal neuralgia: insights from a single-center experience and technical advancements

Background

Microvascular decompression (MVD) remains the primary surgical treatment for trigeminal neuralgia due to its positive postoperative results. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia who underwent MVD. Additionally, the paper offers a detailed explanation of the surgical methodology of MVD employed at the neurosurgical hospital in Kazakhstan.

Methods

The study involved 165 medical records of patients with trigeminal neuralgia who underwent MVD between 2018 and 2020. Out of these 165 patients, 90 (54.55%) were included in the final analysis and were further evaluated using the Barrow Neurological Institute pain intensity score. Various variables were analyzed, including age, sex, affected side, dermatomes, offending vessel, and surgical intervention type. Moreover, the surgical technique employed at the hospital was described.

Results

The average follow-up period after the MVD procedure was 32.78 ± 9.91 months. The results indicated that out of the 90 patients, 80 (88.89%) achieved a good outcome as evidenced by BNI scores I and II. It was observed that patients with affected maxillary dermatomas and those with affected ophthalmic + maxillary dermatomas were more likely to experience fair + poor postsurgery BNI scores. On the other hand, patients with neurovascular conflicts involving the maxillary + mandibular dermatomas demonstrated good BNI scores (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The outcomes of MVD in patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia showed good BNI scores within this study population. The outcome depended on the affected dermatome of the trigeminal nerve with the vessel. Additionally, patient positioning, intraoperative management including small skin incisions, minimal craniotomy, and precise closure of the dura, as well as intraoperative neurolysis, may contribute to achieving good clinical and satisfactory post-surgery aesthetic outcomes.

Microsurgical posterior fossa re-exploration for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia after previous microvascular decompression: common grounds-scarring, deformation, and the "piston effect"

OBJECTIVE

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a well-accepted treatment modality for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) with high initial success rates. The causes for recurrence of TN after previously successful MVD have not been fully clarified, and its treatment is still a matter of debate. Here, we present the surgical findings and the clinical outcome of patients with recurrent TN after MVD who underwent posterior fossa re-exploration.

METHODS

Microsurgical posterior fossa re-exploration was performed in 26 patients with recurrent TN (mean age 59.1 years) who underwent MVD over a period of 10 years. The trigeminal nerve was exposed, and possible factors for recurrent TN were identified. Arachnoid scars and Teflon granulomas were dissected meticulously without manipulating the trigeminal nerve. Outcome of posterior fossa re-exploration was graded according to the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity score. Follow-up was analyzed postoperatively at 3, 12, and 24 months and at the latest available time point for long-term outcome.

RESULTS

The mean duration of recurrent TN after the first MVD was 20 months. Pain relief was achieved in all patients with recurrent TN on the first postoperative day. Intraoperative findings were as follows: arachnoid scar tissue in 22/26 (84.6%) patients, arterial compression in 1/26 (3.8%), venous contact in 8/26 (30.8%), Teflon granuloma in 14/26 (53.8%), compression by an electrode in Meckel's cave used for treatment of neuropathic pain in 1/26 (3.8%), evidence of pulsations transmitted to the trigeminal nerve through the Teflon inserted previously/scar tissue ("piston effect") in 15/26 (57.7%), and combination of findings in 18/26 (69.2%). At long-term follow-up (mean 79.5 months; range, 29-184 months), 21/26 (80.8%) patients had favorable outcome (BNI I-IIIa). New hypaesthesia secondary to microsurgical posterior fossa re-exploration occurred in 5/26 (19.2%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior fossa re-exploration avoiding manipulation to the trigeminal nerve, such as pinching or combing, may be a useful treatment option for recurrent TN after previously successful MVD providing pain relief in the majority of patients with a low rate of new hypaesthesia.

Efficiency and Efficacy of Real-Time Fluoroscopic Image-Guided Percutaneous Gasserian Glycerol Rhizotomy (PGGR), for Intractable Cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Aim & Objectives

To evaluate the ease, efficiency, effectiveness, and associated complications of the technique of percutaneous Gasserian glycerol rhizotomy (PGGR) under real-time fluoroscopic image guidance, for management of severe and refractory cases of primary trigeminal neuralgia, in medical compromised patients. To also assess the long-term efficacy and the necessity, if any, for repeat procedures to salvage recurrences.

Study Design & Setting

In a prospective study conducted at a single institution over a period of three years, 25 cases of Idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia refractory to conservative modalities of treatment including medication were managed with PGGR under real-time fluoroscopic image guidance. All the 25 patients included in this study were known surgical risks for relatively invasive treatment procedures, owing to factors such as advanced age and/or presence of co-morbidities.

Material & Methods

In order to minimize the risks related to the conventional techniques of Trigeminal root rhizotomy based on cutaneous landmarks alone, and to eliminate the need for frequent repositioning of the needle/cannula, we adopted a technique of real-time fluoroscopic image-guided negotiation of a 22 gauge (0.7 mm dia), 10-cm-long spinal nerve block needle through the foramen ovale, to reach the trigeminal cistern within the Meckel's cave. The efficiency of the technique was assessed in terms of time taken, effort, and ease in performing it. Associated intra- and post-procedural complications were recorded. The immediate and long-term effectiveness of the procedure was evaluated by analysing the degree and duration of pain control achieved, time to recurrence, and the necessity for repeat procedures.

Results & Conclusion

There were nil intra- or post-procedural complications encountered, and no failures associated with this procedure. Real-time fluoroscopic imaging enabled easy, quick, and successful negotiation of the nerve-block needle through the Foramen Ovale, so as to reach the Trigeminal cistern within the Meckel's cave, within 11 min on an average. An immediate and long lasting post-procedural pain relief was achieved in all the patients. During the follow-up period of 36 months, recurrence of pain was observed in six cases, the mean timing of the recurrence being 26 months or more. Five of these cases were manageable with medication alone, and only one required a repeat procedure. These results indicate that PGGR under real-time fluoroscopic image guidance is a safe, simple, time-efficient, convenient, efficacious, reliable, and minimally invasive means of treating refractory and intractable cases of trigeminal neuralgia.

Microvascular decompression in trigeminal neuralgia - a prospective study of 115 patients

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia is a severe facial pain disorder. Microvascular decompression is first choice surgical treatment of patients with classical TN. There exist few prospective studies with an independent evaluation of efficacy and complications after MVD.

Objectives

We aimed to assess outcome and complications after microvascular decompression from our center.

Methods

We prospectively recorded clinical characteristics, outcome, and complications from consecutive patients with either classical or idiopathic (only patients with a neurovascular contact) trigeminal neuralgia undergoing microvascular decompression. Neurovascular contact was evaluated by 3.0 Tesla MRI. Patients were assessed before and 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery by independent assessors.

Results

Of 115 included patients, 86% had a clinically significant outcome (i.e., BNI I – BNI IIIb). There was a significant association between an excellent surgical outcome and the male sex (OR 4.9 (CI 1.9–12.8), p = 0.001) and neurovascular contact with morphological changes (OR 2.5 (CI 1.1–6.0), p = 0.036). Significantly more women (12/62 = 19%) than men (2/53 = 4%) had a failed outcome, p = 0.019. The most frequent major complications were permanent hearing impairment (10%), permanent severe hypoesthesia (7%), permanent ataxia (7%), and stroke (6%). Most patients (94%) recommend surgery to others.

Conclusion

Microvascular decompression is an effective treatment for classical and idiopathic (only patients with a neurovascular contact) trigeminal neuralgia with a high chance of a long-lasting effect. The chance of an excellent outcome was highest in men and in patients with classical trigeminal neuralgia. Complications are relatively frequent warranting thorough patient evaluation and information preoperatively.

Trial registration

Clinical.trials.gov registration no. NCT04445766.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10194-022-01520-x.

Microvascular decompression: Diversified of imaging uses, advantages of treating trigeminal neuralgia and improvement after the application of endoscopic technology

Classical trigeminal neuralgia (CTN) is a unilateral and severe facial pain disease, which seriously affects the patient's quality of life. Microvascular decompression (MVD) is currently the most effective surgical method, and it is the only treatment for the etiology of CTN. Imaging for MVD has been increasingly used, and the advantages and disadvantages of endoscopy-assisted vascular decompression surgery have been controversially debated. In this review, we aimed to discuss the advantages of MVD in the treatment of patients with CTN, the importance of using imaging in disease management, and the improvements of vascular decompression surgery through the application and maturity of endoscopic techniques. Compared with other surgical methods, MVD has more prominent short- and long-term treatment effects. Its selection depends on the accurate discovery of neurovascular compression by preoperative imaging. Moreover, magnetic resonance imaging plays a diverse role in MVD, not only in identifying the responsible vessels but also in determining the prognosis and as a tool for scientific research. The use of endoscopic techniques provides improved visualization of the MVD and additional benefits for vascular decompression surgery.

A Review of Medical and Surgical Options for the Treatment of Facial Pain

Facial pain is a common medical complaint that is easily misdiagnosed. As a result, this pain often goes mistreated. Despite this, there are a variety of pharmacologic, surgical, and neuromodulatory options for the treatment of facial pain. In this review, the authors detail the forms of facial pain and their treatment options. They discuss the common medications used in the first-line treatment of facial pain and the second-line surgical and neuromodulatory options available to patients when pharmacologic options fail.

Microvascular decompression for pediatric onset trigeminal neuralgia: patterns and variation

OBJECTIVES

Pediatric trigeminal neuralgia has been rarely reported in the literature, which were only 28 cases. Although microvascular decompression (MVD) has been widely accepted as effective therapy for trigeminal neuralgia, the etiology and surgical treatment of pediatric ones are seldom addressed. We report our experience with MVD for pediatric trigeminal neuralgia patients with emphasis on the vascular conflict patterns and surgical skills.

METHODS

This retrospective report included 11 pediatric TN patients, who underwent MVD and were followed for 3-86 months. The data were retrospectively analyzed with emphasis on the clinical features.

RESULTS

This series included 4 boys and 7 girls with average age of 13 ± 3.4 years old, their onset age were from 7 to 18 years old. The singular vein and combined artery/vein conflictions account for 7/11. 9 (81.8%) patients achieved immediate excellent outcomes. One recurrence was observed after 5 months and refused the second surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The etiology of pediatric onset trigeminal neuralgia is still vascular conflict, whose patterns are different from adults, of which combined artery/vein and singular venous compression patterns have a much more higher proportion. Because of the smaller operative space and fragile-thin venous wall with adhesion to other structures, it is much more difficult to decompress the trigeminal nerve among pediatric patients. Sufficient arachnoid release, full exploration, and decompression along the trigeminal nerve were necessary, which will increase the excellent rate among pediatric patients.

Results of three or more Gamma Knife radiosurgery procedures for recurrent trigeminal neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) is an established surgical option for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (TN), particularly for high-risk surgical candidates and those with recurrent pain. However, outcomes after three or more GKRS treatments have rarely been reported. Herein, the authors reviewed outcomes among patients who had undergone three or more GKRS procedures for recurrent TN.

METHODS

The authors conducted a multicenter retrospective analysis of patients who had undergone at least three GKRS treatments for TN between July 1997 and April 2019 at two different institutions. Clinical characteristics, radiosurgical dosimetry and technique, pain outcomes, and complications were reviewed. Pain outcomes were scored on the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) scale, including time to pain relief (BNI score ≤ III) and recurrence (BNI score > III).

RESULTS

A total of 30 patients were identified, including 16 women and 14 men. Median pain duration prior to the first GKRS treatment was 10 years. Three patients (10%) had multiple sclerosis. Time to pain relief was longer after the third treatment (p = 0.0003), whereas time to pain recurrence was similar across each of the successive treatments (p = 0.842). Complete or partial pain relief was achieved in 93.1% of patients after the third treatment. The maximum pain relief achieved after the third treatment was significantly better among patients with no prior percutaneous procedures (p = 0.0111) and patients with shorter durations of pain before initiation of GKRS therapy (p = 0.0449). New or progressive facial sensory dysfunction occurred in 29% of patients after the third GKRS treatment and was reported as bothersome in 14%. One patient developed facial twitching, while another experienced persistent lacrimation. No statistically significant predictors of adverse effects following the third treatment were found. Over a median of 39 months of follow-up, 77% of patients maintained complete or partial pain relief. Three patients underwent a fourth GKRS treatment, including one who ultimately received five treatments; all of them reported sustained pain relief at the extended follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors describe the largest series to date of patients undergoing three or more GKRS treatments for refractory TN. A third treatment may produce outcomes similar to those of the first two treatments in terms of long-term pain relief, recurrence, and adverse effects.

Trigeminal Neuralgia: Current Approaches and Emerging Interventions

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) has been described in the literature as one of the most debilitating presentations of orofacial pain. This review summarizes over 150 years of collective clinical experience in the medical and surgical treatment of TN. Fundamentally, TN remains a clinical diagnosis that must be distinguished from other types of trigeminal neuropathic pain and/or facial pain associated with other neuralgias or headache syndromes. What is increasingly clear is that there is no catch-all medical or surgical intervention that is effective for all patients with trigeminal neuralgia, likely reflective of the fact that TN is likely a heterogenous group of disorders that jointly manifests in facial pain. The first-line treatment for TN remains anticonvulsant medical therapy. Patients who fail this have a range of surgical options available to them. In general, microvascular decompression is a safe and effective procedure with immediate and durable outcomes. Patients who are unable to tolerate general anesthesia or whose medical comorbidities preclude a suboccipital craniectomy may benefit from percutaneous methodologies including glycerol or radiofrequency ablation, or both. For patients with bleeding diathesis due to blood thinning medications who are ineligible for invasive procedures, or for those who are unwilling to undergo open surgical procedures, radiosurgery may be an excellent option-provided the patient understands that maximum pain relief will take on the order of months to achieve. Finally, peripheral neurectomies continue to provide an inexpensive and resource-sparing alternative to pain relief for patients in locations with limited economic and medical resources. Ultimately, elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying trigeminal neuralgia will pave the way for novel, more effective and less invasive therapies.

Improving the accuracy of pre-operative evaluation of neurovascular conflict in trigeminal neuralgia using magnetic resonance subtraction

PURPOSE

To investigate the ability of magnetic resonance (MR) subtraction to evaluate neurovascular conflict (NVC) and to compare it with conventional MR protocols.

METHODS

This prospective study included 82 patients with trigeminal neuralgia who underwent microvascular decompression for NVC. All patients had a pre-operative examination using 3T MRI. The MRI protocols used comprised 3D balanced (B)-fast field echo (FFE), 3D steady-state magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and 3D T1-FFE sequences. MR subtraction images were obtained by subtracting native images from B-FFE and steady-state MRA. NVC evaluation was performed using subtraction images (MR subtraction) and combination images (conventional MR protocols using B-FFE and T1-FFE in combination). Clinical assessment of the degree of compression, the type of compressing vessel, and the location of conflict were undertaken by two independent observers. The two methods were then compared using surgical criteria.

RESULTS

MR subtraction exhibited greater accuracy than the conventional method in terms of the estimated severity of conflict (87.80% vs. 57.32%, p < 0.05), and demonstrated better consistency with surgical findings (k = 0.794 vs. k = 0.365, p < 0.05). For the type of compressing vessel and the location of conflict, both methods were highly accurate and agreed to a similar extent with surgical findings (p = 0.987, compressing vessel; p = 0.665, location of conflict).

CONCLUSION

MR subtraction proved reliable in NVC pre-operative evaluation, with increased accuracy when estimating severity. This result strongly supports the wider use of MR subtraction as the preferred choice in clinical application.

Facial Pain: A Comprehensive Review and Proposal for a Pragmatic Diagnostic Approach

BACKGROUND

Facial pain, alone or combined with other symptoms, is a frequent complaint. Moreover, it is a symptom situated at, more than any other pain condition, a crosspoint where several disciplines meet, for example, dentists; manual therapists; ophthalmologists; psychologists; and ear-nose-throat, pain, and internal medicine physicians besides neurologists and neurosurgeons. Recently, a new version of the most widely used classification system among neurologists for headache and facial pain, the International Classification of Headache Disorders, has been published.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to provide an overview of the most prevalent etiologies of facial pain and to provide a generic framework for the neurologist on how to manage patients presenting with facial pain.

METHODS

An overview of the different etiologies of facial pain is provided from the viewpoint of the respective clinical specialties that are confronted with facial pain. Key message: Caregivers should "think outside their own box" and refer to other disciplines when indicated. If not, a correct diagnosis can be delayed and unnecessary treatments might be given. The presented framework is aimed at excluding life- or organ-threatening diseases, providing several clinical clues and indications for technical investigations, and ultimately leading to the correct diagnosis and/or referral to other disciplines.

From Mechanism to Cure: Renewing the Goal to Eliminate the Disease of Pain

Objective

Persistent pain causes untold misery worldwide and is a leading cause of disability. Despite its astonishing prevalence, pain is undertreated, at least in part because existing therapeutics are ineffective or cause intolerable side effects. In this review, we cover new findings about the neurobiology of pain and argue that all but the most transient forms of pain needed to avoid tissue damage should be approached as a disease where a cure can be the goal of all treatment plans, even if attaining this goal is not yet always possible.

Design

We reviewed the literature to highlight recent advances in the area of the neurobiology of pain.

Results

We discuss barriers that are currently hindering the achievement of this goal, as well as the development of new therapeutic strategies. We also discuss innovations in the field that are creating new opportunities to treat and even reverse persistent pain, some of which are in late-phase clinical trials.

Conclusion

We conclude that the confluence of new basic science discoveries and development of new technologies are creating a path toward pain therapeutics that should offer significant hope of a cure for patients and practitioners alike. Classification of Evidence. Our review points to new areas of inquiry for the pain field to advance the goal of developing new therapeutics to treat chronic pain.

Arachnoiditis as an outcome factor for microvascular decompression in classical trigeminal neuralgia

BACKGROUND

Neurovascular conflict is considered a key element of classical trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and consequently, microvascular decompression (MVD) is an effective treatment. Nevertheless, failures of MVD are described by many authors. In some patients, the arachnoid membranes surrounding the trigeminal nerve and neighbouring vessels may be thickened and adhesive. Here we analyse the impact of such focal arachnoiditis on outcome after MVD for TN.

METHODS

A cohort of prospectively followed patients after their MVD was reviewed for intraoperative, imaging and clinical data if findings of arachnoiditis during MVD were described. Long-term outcome assessment was the main endpoint.

RESULTS

We reviewed data from 395 MVD procedures, performed for TN from 2001 to 2014. Intraoperative evidence of focal arachnoiditis, as described by the surgeon, has been noted in 51 patients (13%). In 35 (68.6%), neuralgia was typical and in the other 17 (31.4%) it was atypical. As expected by definition, neurovascular conflict was found in 49 interventions (96%); it was predominantly arterial in 27 (52.9%). Accompanying arachnoiditis was encountered: mild in 20 interventions (39.2%), severe in 31 (60.8%). A successful result (BNI I or II) was achieved in 29 patients (56.9%). The other 22 patients (43.1%) had persistence or recurrence of pain. Overall KM probability of being pain free at 15 years was 72%.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative finding of arachnoiditis during MVD for classical trigeminal neuralgia is associated with poorer outcome than that of classical trigeminal neuralgia in general. This is particularly true for low grades of conflict.

Greater palatine block for V2 trigeminal neuralgia: Case report

AIMS

This study describes a novel nerve block directed at the maxillary (V2) division of the fifth cranial nerve as treatment for medication-refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

METHODS AND RESULTS

The authors present three cases of TN treated with V2 nerve block using commonly available local anesthetics injected through the greater palatine foramen. Patients' medications were noted before and after the procedure. Following the injection, patients were followed over time and outcome was assessed. Patients experienced rapid and long-lasting pain relief allowing for significant reduction in antineuralgia medications. This was done with the objective of breaking the pain cycle with subsequent discontinuation or reduction of analgesic medications.

CONCLUSION

This technique may be an effective treatment for medication-refractory V2 TN. By interrupting the pain cycle, this renders the condition amenable to long-term control using diminished doses of standard antineuralgia pharmaceuticals. The practical implications of the described procedure are that it is simple, safe, and well-tolerated with few or no adverse effects. This novel technique is a diagnostic feature for the dentist to differentiate between sources of facial pain.

A Case of Ophthalmic Branch Trigeminal Neuralgia in the Emergency Department

This case report describes a middle-aged patient with a past history of migraine headaches, who presented to the emergency department with a new onset of headaches around his left eye that were different from the pattern and character of his usual migraine headaches. The pain was severe, brief, and stabbing in nature, lasting only seconds, and occurring over intervals of a few minutes. His vital signs, including glucose, were normal. He had no constitutional symptoms, a normal neurological examination, and a normal head, eyes, ears, nose, and throat examination. The painful paroxysms could not be elicited on palpation of his face, head, or oral mucosa. His blood investigations were reported as within normal limits. He was not using alcohol or any illicit drugs and was not taking any medication. A diagnosis, with supportive imaging, of ophthalmic branch trigeminal neuralgia (TN) was made. His pain responded well to treatment with carbamazepine. TN is characterized by brief and intermittent lancinating pain with or without a constant background level of pain in the sensory distribution of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. There are three main causes for TN: idiopathic, the classical type resulting from neurovascular compression, and the secondary type typically due to multiple sclerosis, a space-occupying lesion, or a skull base abnormality. The mandibular and maxillary branches are most affected and can often be affected simultaneously. Ophthalmic branch TN is relatively rare. Virtually all of TN cases are unilateral and most are the classical type. Distinguishing TN from other cephalalgias, ocular pain, dental pain, or other pathology is critical to a proper diagnosis and initiation of effective therapy. Identifying trigger zones is important and carries a high diagnostic yield; however, they may be anatomically difficult to access, or in a refractory period during a physical examination. Physicians should be aware of several red flags associated with a suspected case of TN. Carbamazepine is the first-line treatment for TN, capable of reducing pain in 90% of patients. Failure to respond to medication requires further investigation and/or specialist referral. Untreated or unrecognized TN can have significant impacts on a patient's quality of life.

Evaluation of biochemical variables in patients with trigeminal neuralgia

The aim of this study was to evaluate the calcium, sodium, potassium, serum iron, vitamin B12, and albumin concentrations, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, in samples of serum from patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN), and investigate the associations between them. Results from 73 patients who had been diagnosed with primary TN between December 2015 and 2017 were compared with those of 70 healthy subjects. Calcium (p=0.013), iron (p=0.004), and albumin (p=0.001) concentrations in the primary TN group were significantly lower than those in the control group, whereas the ALP activity was significantly higher in the TN group than in the control group (p=0.007). However, there was no significant difference in the sodium, potassium, or vitamin B12 concentrations. Biochemical variables have a role in the pathogenesis and treatment of primary TN, but there are few studies that characterise the relations between the condition and the biochemical changes. Further studies are therefore necessary to gain more information.

Contrast-Enhanced CISS Imaging for Evaluation of Neurovascular Compression in Trigeminal Neuralgia: Improved Correlation with Symptoms and Prediction of Surgical Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Thin-section MR imaging through the posterior fossa is frequently used for trigeminal neuralgia. Typical heavily T2-weighted imaging methods yield high anatomic detail and contrast between CSF and neurovascular structures, but poor contrast between vessels and nerves. We hypothesized that the addition of gadolinium-based contrast material to 3D-constructive interference in steady-state imaging would improve the characterization of trigeminal compression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of high-resolution MRIs was performed in patients without prior microvascular decompression. 3D-CISS imaging without contrast and with contrast for 81 patients with trigeminal neuralgia and 15 controls was intermixed and independently reviewed in a blinded fashion. Cisternal segments of both trigeminal nerves were assessed for the grade of neurovascular conflict, cross-sectional area, and degree of flattening. Data were correlated with symptom side and pain relief after microvascular decompression using the Fisher exact test, receiver operating curve analysis, and a paired t test.

RESULTS

Contrast-enhanced CISS more than doubled the prevalence of the highest grade of neurovascular conflict (14.8% versus 33.3%, P = .001) and yielded significantly lower cross-sectional area (P = 8.6 × 10^-6) and greater degree of flattening (P = .02) for advanced-grade neurovascular conflict on the symptoms side compared with non-contrast-enhanced CISS. Patients with complete pain relief after microvascular decompression had significantly lower cross-sectional area on contrast-enhanced CISS compared with non-contrast-enhanced CISS on preoperative imaging (P = 2.0 × 10^-7). Performance based on receiver operating curve analysis was significantly improved for contrast-enhanced CISS compared with non-contrast-enhanced CISS.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of contrast material to 3D-CISS imaging improves the performance of identifying unilateral neurovascular compression for symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia and predicting outcomes after microvascular decompression.

Sumatriptan improves postoperative quality of recovery and reduces postcraniotomy headache after cranial nerve decompression

BACKGROUND

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a surgical treatment for cranial nerve disorders via a small craniotomy. The postoperative pain of this procedure can be classified as surgical site somatic pain and postcraniotomy headache similar in nature to a migraine, including its association with photophobia, nausea, and vomiting. This headache can be difficult to treat and can impact on postoperative recovery. Sumatriptan is used to treat migraine-like headaches in various settings. This single-centre randomized controlled trial investigated whether postoperative administration of sumatriptan after MVD surgery impacts the quality of postoperative recovery.

METHODS

Fifty patients who complained of postoperative headache after MVD were randomized to receive an s.c. injection of sumatriptan (6 mg) or saline. The primary outcome was quality of recovery as measured by the Quality of Recovery-40 (QoR-40) score at 24 h.

RESULTS

The QoR-40 scores were significantly higher in the sumatriptan group (median 184; interquartile range 169-196) than in the placebo group (133; 119-155; P<0.01), suggesting higher quality of recovery. The sumatriptan group also had significantly lower headache scores at 4, 12, and 24 h. There were no significant differences in other secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of sumatriptan improved the quality of recovery as measured by the QoR-40 and reduction of headache at 24 h after surgery. Sumatriptan is a useful alternative treatment for postcraniotomy headache. The mechanism remains unknown but could be related to reduction in headache, mood modulation, or both, mediated by a serotonin effect.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01632657.

Prognostic factors for outcome of microvascular decompression in trigeminal neuralgia: A prospective systematic study using independent assessors

Introduction

There is a lack of high-quality prospective, systematic studies using independent assessors of outcome of microvascular decompression as treatment for trigeminal neuralgia.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and outcome data were recorded prospectively from consecutive classical trigeminal neuralgia patients, using standardized interviews. Degree of neurovascular contact was evaluated by a 3.0 Tesla MRI blinded to symptomatic side. Patients were assessed before and 12 months after surgery by a neurologist.

Results

Twenty-six men and 33 women completed 12 months follow-up. Forty-one patients (69%) had an excellent outcome (no pain, no medication). Ten (18%) patients had a good outcome. Eight (12%) patients had no improvement or had worsening of pain. MRI showed neurovascular contact with morphological changes in 34 patients (58%). Odds ratio between neurovascular contact with morphological changes and excellent outcome was 4.4 (Cl 1.16–16.26), p = 0.029. Odds ratio between male sex and excellent outcome was 11.38 (Cl 2.12–59.52), p = 0.004. No significant association was found between excellent outcome and concomitant persistent pain, current age or disease duration.

Conclusion

Neurovascular contact with morphological changes and male sex are positive predictive factors for outcome of microvascular decompression. The findings enable clinicians to better inform patients before surgery.

Impact of pain and postoperative complications on patient-reported outcome measures 5 years after microvascular decompression or partial sensory rhizotomy for trigeminal neuralgia

Background

Microvascular decompression (MVD) and partial sensory rhizotomy (PSR) provide longstanding pain relief in trigeminal neuralgia (TN). Given their invasiveness, complications can result from such posterior fossa procedures, but the impact of these procedures and their complications on patient-reported outcome measures (PROM), such as quality of life and distress, are not well established.

Method

Five years after surgery, patients who underwent first MVD or PSR for TN at one institution, between 1982 and 2002, were sent a self-completion assessment set containing a range of PROMs: the Short Form-12 (SF-12) questionnaire to assess quality of life, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) to assess distress, and a questionnaire containing questions about postoperative complications, their severity and impact on quality of life. These findings and demographic data were compared between MVD and PSR.

Results

One hundred and eighty-one of 245 (73.9%) patients after first MVD and 49 of 60 (81.7%) after PSR responded, and were included in analyses. The mean SF-12 scores of patients after MVD and PSR at five-year follow-up were significantly lower than English age-matched norms. Though there were no differences in SF-12 physical or mental component scores between the two procedures, patients after PSR were more likely to have case-level anxiety (RR = 3.3; 95% CI, 1.1–10.5; p = 0.03), had more postoperative complications, and of greater severity, including pain (RR = 2.52; 95% CI, 1.5–4.1; p < 0.001), numbness (RR = 5.9; 95% CI, 3.8–9.2; p < 0.001), burning sensations (RR = 3.0; 95% CI, 1.5–5.8; p = 0.001) and difficulty in eating (RR = 17.1; 95% CI, 5.6–53.1; p < 0.001), and these had a larger impact on quality of life for PSR compared to MVD.

Conclusions

The quality of life 5 years after MVD or PSR is poorer than in the general population and associated with postoperative complications such as pain, numbness, burning sensation and difficulty in eating. These complications are commoner after PSR than MVD, and this is associated with anxiety in PSR patients at five-year follow-up. However, these differences are not reflected by quality of life scores. Outcome measures need to incorporate patient experience after treatment for TN, and represent patient priorities for quality of life.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00701-017-3350-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The Study of Calcium, Phosphonium, Magnesium, and Ferrum Concentration in Serum of Patients With Primary Trigeminal Neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

To measure the concentration of 4 essential elements (Ca, P, Mg, Fe) in serum of patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia. And evaluate the role of the 4 elements in serum on the pathogenesis of trigeminal neuralgia (TN), and the relevance of etiology.

METHODS

From June 2013 to June 2014, a number of 80 patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia were collected. We present a retrospective review of the concentration of 4 essential elements with those of control group of 80 patients without TN. The concentrations of 4 elements were measured with Olympus AU 400 automatic biochemistry analyzer.

RESULTS

In primary TN patients, the concentration of Ca, P, Mg in serum is lower than the control group obviously (P <0.05), but the concentration of Fe in serum is higher than the control group obviously (P <0.05). Along with level of the VOS improved, the concentration of Ca, P, and Mg in serum becomes lower and lower. However, along with level of the VOS improved, the concentration of Fe in serum becomes higher and higher.

CONCLUSION

Patients with primary TN, the change of 4 elements concentration in serum is connected with biochemical material change. The change of the microelement may play an important role in the development of Trigeminal neuralgia, possibly demyelinating lesions.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a sudden, severe, brief, stabbing, and recurrent pain within one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. Type 1 as intermittent and Type 2 as constant pain represent distinct clinical, pathological, and prognostic entities. Although multiple mechanism involving peripheral pathologies at root (compression or traction), and dysfunctions of brain stem, basal ganglion, and cortical pain modulatory mechanisms could have role, neurovascular conflict is the most accepted theory. Diagnosis is essentially clinically; magnetic resonance imaging is useful to rule out secondary causes, detect pathological changes in affected root and neurovascular compression (NVC). Carbamazepine is the drug of choice; oxcarbazepine, baclofen, lamotrigine, phenytoin, and topiramate are also useful. Multidrug regimens and multidisciplinary approaches are useful in selected patients. Microvascular decompression is surgical treatment of choice in TN resistant to medical management. Patients with significant medical comorbidities, without NVC and multiple sclerosis are generally recommended to undergo gamma knife radiosurgery, percutaneous balloon compression, glycerol rhizotomy, and radiofrequency thermocoagulation procedures. Partial sensory root sectioning is indicated in negative vessel explorations during surgery and large intraneural vein. Endoscopic technique can be used alone for vascular decompression or as an adjuvant to microscope. It allows better visualization of vascular conflict and entire root from pons to ganglion including ventral aspect. The effectiveness and completeness of decompression can be assessed and new vascular conflicts that may be missed by microscope can be identified. It requires less brain retraction.

Management of different kinds of veins during microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia: technique notes

OBJECTIVE

During microvascular decompression surgery for trigeminal neuralgia, surgeons will encounter various kinds of veins that block the approach to or compress the trigeminal nerve. The aim of this study was to present our experience in managing different kinds of veins.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 21 patients with trigeminal neuralgia, in whom one or more veins were encountered during surgery. The techniques used in treating 4 types of veins during microvascular decompression were assessed, and the surgical outcomes and operative complications were analysed.

RESULTS

For the first type, large veins blocking the approach towards the root entry zone (REZ) of the trigeminal nerve were bypassed via cerebellar fissure approach. Second, veins lying on the brainstem surface and compressing the REZ were detached using a gelatin-assisted dissecting technique and then interposed. Third, veins rising from the surface of the brainstem and crossing the cisternal portion of the trigeminal nerve were interposed. Fourth, intraneural veins, which were generally small, were coagulated and cut. In this series, there was no intentional sacrifice or unintentional rupture of large veins, and the sacrifice rate of medium and small veins was only 19.0%. Thirteen patients (61.9%) gained complete pain relief immediately after surgery (i.e. "excellent" result), while the remaining eight patients (38.1%) achieved "good" pain relief.

CONCLUSION

Different surgical techniques were used based on the different kinds of veins encountered. This allowed preservation of almost all the large veins. There were no serious complications postoperatively.

Role of endovascular embolization for trigeminal neuralgia related to cerebral vascular malformation

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this article is to describe the trigeminal neuralgia related to cerebral vascular malformation that is rarely reported and the experience referring to endovascular treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 10 patients who had cerebral vascular malformation (AVM and dAVF) in a single center presented with trigeminal neuralgia. Clinical and angiographic presentations as well as their clinical outcomes after embolization were reviewed.

RESULTS

Of the 10 cases, seven dAVFs and three AVMs were detected. In contrast to the dilated feeding arteries, an ectasia of the draining vein that is adjacent to the root entry zone of the trigeminal nerve such as the petrosal vein and lateral mesencephalic vein has the major role in causing the trigeminal neuralgia. All of these patients had relief of facial pain after endovascular embolization during follow-up (mean 57.3 months, range 5 to 100 months). There were no permanent neurological deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular embolization is an effective method in treating trigeminal neuralgia related to cerebral vascular malformation.

Pain. Part 7: Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is also known as 'tic douloureux' (in French, 'painful twitch'). It is a rare chronic facial pain syndrome, characterized by severe, brief, stabbing, 'electric shock-like 'recurrent pain attacks felt in one or more divisions of trigeminal nerve innervation areas. So intense is the elicited pain that TN has a significant effect on a sufferer's quality of life, rendering many patients unable to consider a future with the ongoing threat of recurrent pain. The aim of this article is to discuss the diagnosis and management of this disabling facial pain condition. CPD/Clinical Relevance: As general medical practitioners may struggle differentiating TN from toothache, primary care dentists have an important role in excluding odontogenic cause of pain, diagnosing TN and referring patients to a facial pain clinic for further investigations and multidisciplinary team management.

Pharmaceutical Management of Trigeminal Neuralgia in the Elderly

Classical trigeminal neuralgia (CTN) is a severe neuropathic pain in the distribution of one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve, which occurs in recurrent episodes, causing deterioration in quality of life, affecting everyday habits and inducing severe disability. The aim of this review is to give an overview of the current literature on pharmaceutical treatment options for CTN in the elderly. The first-line treatment for the management of CTN in adults is an antiepileptic—carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine. There is a lack of research on the use of antiepileptics in the elderly. This is a deficiency, as the use of antiepileptics raises a number of problems due to the polypharmacotherapy common in older patients. This can induce drug interactions due to co-morbidities and changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Furthermore, the side effects of carbamazepine include central nervous system disturbances, such as a lack of balance, dizziness, somnolence, renal dysfunction and cardiac arrhythmias, which are poorly tolerated by the elderly. Unfortunately, the efficacy and safety of alternative treatment options have not been systematically evaluated. On the basis of the current literature, it is not possible to give an evidence-based recommendation for first-line pharmaceutical management of CTN specifically for the elderly.

Patterns and variations in microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is a highly effective surgical treatment for trigeminal neuralgia (TN). Although there is little prospective clinical evidence, accumulated observational studies have demonstrated the benefits of MVD for refractory TN. In the current surgical practice of MVD for TN, there have been recognized patterns and variations in surgical anatomy and various decompression techniques. Here we provide a stepwise description of surgical procedures and relevant anatomical characteristics, as well as procedural options.

[Neuropathic pain: pathophysiology, assessment, and therapy]

Neuropathic pain is caused by lesions in the somatosensory system. Characteristic but not exclusive features are spontaneous burning pain, electrifying and shooting pain, hyperalgesia, and allodynia. The basic concept of the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain is the combination of peripheral and central sensitization. Knowledge on the molecular mechanisms has grown exponentially in recent years. The problem lies in identifying the individual mechanisms and in determining a comprehensive concept. Progress has also been made in assessment, e.g., methods for detecting dysfunction of nociceptors have significantly improved. In addition, there are many more therapeutic options available than 15 years ago. The drugs available include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioids, and topical medications. Data from controlled trials and recommendations from guidelines are available.

Microvascular decompression for typewriter tinnitus-case report

BACKGROUND

Microvascular decompression has been tested as a treatment for tinnitus.

METHODS

However, only a fraction of patients appear to benefit from surgery if the combination of findings such as paroxysmal vertigo, ABR changes and tinnitus is used to select patients for microvascular decompression.

RESULTS

Instead, a more specific syndrome of staccato or "typewriter" tinnitus, which is highly responsive to carbamazepine, was suggested to be caused by a neurovascular conflict.

CONCLUSION

We present the first case of typewriter tinnitus with complete long-term symptom relief following microvascular decompression of the vestibulocochlear nerve. We suggest that this specific syndrome is caused by a neurovascular conflict and treatable by microvascular decompression.

Intraoperative indocyanine green angiography during microvascular decompression surgery: report of 30 cases

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) angiography during microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery.

METHODS

The surgical outcomes of 19 patients with hemifacial spasm, nine patients with trigeminal neuralgia, and two patients with glossopharyngeal neuralgia who were treated with MVD surgery, using the posterior approach and routine craniotomy, via procedures in which ICG angiography was used were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

ICG angiography clearly displayed the nerves and blood vessels. Among the 30 patients, 25 were cured, four showed improvements, and one had a worsened outcome. There were no significant complications. Outcome was not associated with age, gender, or diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative ICG angiography used during MVD surgery provided a clear display of the nerves and arteries. All but one patient was cured or had improvement. The findings suggest that intraoperative ICG angiography may be an effective supplemental technique for use during MVD surgery.

Orofacial pain: a guide for the headache physician

Orofacial pain represents a significant burden in terms of morbidity and health service utilization. It includes very common disorders such as toothache and temporomandibular disorders, as well as rare orofacial pain syndromes. Many orofacial pain conditions have overlapping presentations, and diagnostic uncertainty is frequently encountered in clinical practice. This review provides a clinically orientated overview of common and uncommon orofacial pain presentations and diagnoses, with an emphasis on conditions that may be unfamiliar to the headache physician. A holistic approach to orofacial pain management is important, and the social, cultural, psychological and cognitive context of each patient needs to be considered in the process of diagnostic formulation, as well as in the development of a pain management plan according to the biopsychosocial model. Recognition of psychological comorbidities will assist in diagnosis and management planning.

Differential diagnosis of facial pain and guidelines for management

The diagnosis and management of facial pain below the eye can be very different dependant on whether the patient visits a dentist or medical practitioner. A structure for accurate diagnosis is proposed beginning with a very careful history. The commonest acute causes of pain are dental and these are well managed by dentists. Chronic facial pain can be unilateral or bilateral and continuous or episodic. The commonest non-dental pains are temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), especially musculoskeletal involving the muscles of mastication either unilaterally or bilaterally; they may be associated with other chronic pains. A very wide range of treatments are used but early diagnosis, reassurance and some simple physiotherapy is often effective in those with good coping strategies. Dentists will often make splints to wear at night. Neuropathic pain is usually unilateral and of the episodic type; the most easily recognized is trigeminal neuralgia. This severe electric shock like pain, provoked by light touch, responds best to carbamazepine, and neurosurgery in poorly controlled patients. Trauma, either major or because of dental procedures, results in neuropathic pain and these are then managed as for any other neuropathic pain. Red flags include giant cell arteritis which much be distinguished from temporomandibular disorders (TMD), especially in >50 yr olds, and cancer which can present as a progressive neuropathic pain. Burning mouth syndrome is rarely recognized as a neuropathic pain as it occurs principally in peri-menopausal women and is thought to be psychological. Chronic facial pain patients are best managed by a multidisciplinary team.

Arterial compression of nerve is the primary cause of trigeminal neuralgia

Whether arterial or venous compression or arachnoid adhesions are primarily responsible for compression of the trigeminal nerve in patients with trigeminal neuralgia is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the causes of trigeminal nerve compression in patients with trigeminal neuralgia. The surgical findings in patients with trigeminal neuralgia who were treated by micro vascular decompression were compared to those in patients with hemifacial spasm without any signs or symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia who were treated with microvascular decompression. The study included 99 patients with trigeminal neuralgia (median age, 57 years) and 101 patients with hemifacial spasm (median age, 47 years). There were significant differences between the groups in the relationship of artery to nerve (p < 0.001) and the presence of arachnoid adhesions (p < 0.001) but no significant difference in relationship of vein to nerve. After adjustment for age, gender, and other factors, patients with vein compression of nerve or with artery compression of nerve were more likely to have trigeminal neuralgia (OR = 5.21 and 42.54, p = 0.026 and p < 0.001, respectively). Patients with arachnoid adhesions were less likely to have trigeminal neuralgia (OR = 0.15, p = 0.038). Arterial compression of the trigeminal nerve is the primary cause of trigeminal neuralgia and therefore, decompression of veins need not be a priority when performing microvascular dissection in patients with trigeminal neuralgia.

Multi-dimensionality of chronic pain of the oral cavity and face

Orofacial pain in its broadest definition can affect up to 7% of the population. Its diagnosis and initial management falls between dentists and doctors and in the secondary care sector among pain physicians, headache neurologists and oral physicians. Chronic facial pain is a long term condition and like all other chronic pain is associated with numerous co-morbidities and treatment outcomes are often related to the presenting co-morbidities such as depression, anxiety, catastrophising and presence of other chronic pain which must be addressed as part of management . The majority of orofacial pain is continuous so a history of episodic pain narrows down the differentials. There are specific oral conditions that rarely present extra orally such as atypical odontalgia and burning mouth syndrome whereas others will present in both areas. Musculoskeletal pain related to the muscles of mastication is very common and may also be associated with disc problems. Trigeminal neuralgia and the rarer glossopharyngeal neuralgia are specific diagnosis with defined care pathways. Other trigeminal neuropathic pain which can be associated with neuropathy is caused most frequently by trauma but secondary causes such as malignancy, infection and auto-immune causes need to be considered. Management is along the lines of other neuropathic pain using accepted pharmacotherapy with psychological support. If no other diagnostic criteria are fulfilled than a diagnosis of chronic or persistent idiopathic facial pain is made and often a combination of antidepressants and cognitive behaviour therapy is effective. Facial pain patients should be managed by a multidisciplinary team.