Safety of microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia in the elderly

Pathophysiology and Management of Refractory Trigeminal Neuralgia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Discuss the current understanding of the pathophysiology and management of refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TN). This includes a discussion on why TN can recur after microvascular decompression and a discussion on "outside of the box" options when both first- and second-line management strategies have been exhausted.

RECENT FINDINGS

This review discusses second- and third-line oral medication options, botulinum toxin A, repeat microvascular decompression, repeat ablative procedures, internal neurolysis, trigeminal branch blockade, and neuromodulation using TMS or peripheral stimulation. Additional management for chronic neuropathic facial pain such as deep brain stimulation, motor cortex stimulation, and focused ultrasound thalamotomy are also discussed, though evidence in trigeminal neuralgia is limited. Treatment of recurrent TN despite multiple surgeries can be challenging, and multiple minimally invasive and more invasive management options have been reported in small studies and case reports. Further studies are needed to determine an optimal stepwise approach.

Efficacy and safety of microvascular decompression with or without partial sensory rhizotomy: a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review in treating trigeminal neuralgia

Classical trigeminal neuralgia (TN), caused by vascular compression of the nerve root, is a severe cause of pain with a considerable impact on a patient's quality of life. While microvascular decompression (MVD) has lower recurrence rates when compared with partial sensory rhizotomy (PSR) alone, refractoriness can still be as high as 47%. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety profile of MVD + PSR when compared to standalone MVD for TN. We searched Medline, Embase, and Web of Science following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included those with ≥ 4 patients, in English, published between January 1980 and December 2023, comparing MVD vs. MVD + PSR for TN. Endpoints were pain cure, immediate post-operative pain improvement, long-term effectiveness, long-term recurrence, and complications (facial numbness, hearing loss, and intracranial bleeding). We pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals with a random-effects model. I2 was used to assess heterogeneity, and sensitivity and Baujat analysis were conducted to address high heterogeneity. Eight studies were included, comprising a total of 1,338 patients, of whom 1,011 were treated with MVD and 327 with MVD + PSR. Pain cure analysis revealed a lower likelihood of pain cure in patients treated with MVD when compared to patients treated with MVD + PSR (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.72). Immediate postoperative pain improvement assessment revealed a lower likelihood of improvement in the MVD group when compared with the MVD + PSR group (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.95). Facial numbness assessment revealed a lower likelihood of occurrence in MVD alone when compared to MVD + PSR (OR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.04 to 0.15). Long-term effectiveness, long-term recurrence, hearing loss, and intracranial bleeding analyses revealed no difference between both approaches. Our meta-analysis identified that MVD + PSR was superior to MVD for pain cure and immediate postoperative pain improvement for treating TN. However, MVD + PSR demonstrated a higher likelihood of facial numbness complications. Furthermore, identified that hearing loss and intracranial bleeding complications appear comparable between the two treatments, and no difference between long-term effectiveness and recurrence.

A Pilot Study of Hypofractionated Radiosurgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia

The primary late toxicity of radiosurgery treatment for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is facial numbness due to trigeminal nerve dysfunction. Although most patients prefer loss of facial sensation to TN, severe loss of facial sensation can be debilitating. In order to try to obtain high pain control rates while minimizing the risk of late facial numbness, we elected to treat patients on the distal trigeminal nerve with a three-fraction regimen over consecutive days instead of one fraction. Our goal was to relieve the pain while also allowing the trigeminal nerve time to repair radiation damage between treatments in an attempt to minimize the risk of permanent facial numbness. Patients in a pilot study, approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB), received a treatment regimen of 99 Gy, administered in three consecutive daily fractions of 33 Gy each, with the dosage targeted to the 80% line. This dose was selected to approximate a biologically equivalent dose of 80 Gy maximal dose to the trigeminal nerve. Forty-eight patients were treated with CyberKnife Radiosurgery (CKRS; 99 Gy/3 fractions) for TN from 2016 to 2022, with at least one year of follow-up. The Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) scale was used to assess facial pain, and Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess adequate pain relief. Thirty-eight (84%) patients experienced adequate pain relief, defined as a BNI score of I-IIIb, after a median of 1.5 months following CKRS. Treatment failure (BNI=IV-V) occurred in 12 (25%) patients after a median of 6 months following initial pain relief. The actuarial probability of pain relief at 6, 12, and 24 months post-CKRS were 87.4%, 83.7%, and 83.7%, respectively. Facial numbness was experienced in 24 (50%) cases after a median of 10 months following CKRS. Typical facial pain (p=0.034) and vascular compression (p=0.039) were the only predictors of better treatment outcomes using univariate Cox survival analysis, and vascular compression (p= 0.037) was the only predictor in multivariate Cox survival analysis. Hypofractionated treatment to the distal trigeminal nerve segment does not appear to offer an advantage in treating TN, due to similar rates of pain relief but with an unacceptably high rate of late facial numbness.

Effects of microvascular decompression on quality-of-life in trigeminal neuralgia patients aged 70 years and older

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) occasionally affects older adults, frequently worsens, and becomes refractory to medication. Older adult patients with TN may consider microvascular decompression (MVD) for their treatment. No study examines MVD effects on older adult TN patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The present study evaluates the HRQoL of TN patients aged 70 years and older before and after MVD.

Methods

Adult TN patients who underwent MVD evaluated their HRQoL using the 36-Item Short-form (SF-36) Health Survey before and 6 months after MVD. The patients were divided into four groups according to their decade of age. The clinical parameters and operative outcomes were analyzed statistically. The SF-36 physical, mental, and role social component summary scores and eight domain scale scores were analyzed using a twoway repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare the effects of age group and preoperative and postoperative time points.

Results

Among 57 adult patients (34 women, 23 men; mean age, 69 years; range, 30-89 years), 21 patients were in their seventies, and 11 were in their eighties. The SF-36 scores of patients in all age groups improved after MVD. Two-way repeated-measures ANOVA demonstrated a significant age group effect on the physical component summary and its physical functioning domain. A time point effect was significant on all component summaries and domains. There was a significant interaction between age group and time point effects on the bodily pain domain. These results suggested that patients 70 years and older had significant postoperative HRQoL improvement, but their improvement of physical-related HRQoL and multiple physical pain issues were limited.

Conclusion

Impaired HRQoL in TN patients aged 70 years and older can improve after MVD. Careful management of multiple comorbidities and surgical risks enables MVD to be an appropriate treatment for older adult patients with refractory TN.

Surgical and Clinical Outcomes of Microvascular Decompression: A Comparative Study between Young and Elderly Patients

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is the only etiological technique for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia (TN). Whilst there is a consensus MVD is likely effective regardless of age, the elderly population is thought to be more prone to have a higher rate of surgical complication, morbidity, and mortality. The main objective of our single-center, retrospective study was to analyze the surgical and clinical outcomes of MVD in TN elderly patients. From a surgical series of patients with TN who had undergone MVD from April 2018 to April 2022, 76 patients who matched the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups: twenty-five (32.9%) patients were older than 65 years and included in the elderly group, while the remaining fifty-one (61.1%) patients were below 65 years included in the non-elderly one. There were no differences between the groups in terms of acute pain relief (APR), Barrow Neurological Index (BNI) at follow-up, complications, and recurrence rate. In multivariate analysis (Cox proportional hazards regression analysis) the presence of an offending artery with nerve root distortion/indentation emerged as the only independent prognostic factor for pain-free survival (p = 0.0001). Our data endorse MVD as a safe and effective surgical procedure also for elderly patients with TN.

Incidence of repeat procedures and healthcare utilization following surgery, radiosurgery, and percutaneous procedures in elderly patients with trigeminal neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

Management of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) in elderly patients poses significant challenges. The impact of different treatment modalities (surgery, radiosurgery [RS], and percutaneous techniques [PTs]) on healthcare utilization is not well defined in the management of TN in elderly patients. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term healthcare utilization metrics of different interventions in the management of elderly patients with TN.

METHODS

The MarketScan database was queried using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and Current Procedural Terminology, from 2000 to 2016. TN patients ≥ 65 years of age managed using surgery, RS, and PTs with at least 5 years of follow-up after the index procedure were included. Outcomes analyzed were hospital admissions, outpatient services, and medication refills.

RESULTS

Of 993 patients, 43% (n = 430) underwent RS, 44% (n = 432) had PTs, and only 13% (n = 131) underwent surgery for TN. Overall, the median age of patients was 74 years old, 64% were females, 90% had Medicare insurance, and 17% had an Elixhauser index ≥ 3. Patients in the surgery group were younger (median age 71 years) with a higher comorbidity index (≥ 3; 24%) compared with patients undergoing RS and PTs (13% and 17%, respectively). At 1, 2, and 5 years after the index procedure, 41%, 48%, and 57% of patients in the PT cohort underwent any repeat procedure compared with 11%, 18%, and 29% for the RS cohort, and 6%, 9%, and 11% for the surgical cohort, respectively. Also, patients in the PT cohort incurred 1.8, 1.9, and 2.0 times the combined payment at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively, compared with the surgery cohort. Similarly, patients who underwent RS for TN incurred 1.4, 1.5, and 1.5 times the combined payment at 1, 2, and 5 years, respectively, compared with the surgery cohort. At 5 years after the index procedure, combined payments for the PT cohort were $79,753 (IQR $46,013, $144,064) compared with $61,016 (IQR $27,114, $117,097) for the RS cohort and $41,074 (IQR $25,392, $87,952) for the surgery cohort (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

PTs followed by RS were the common procedures used in the majority of elderly patients with TN. However, surgery for TN resulted in durable control with the least need for reoperations up to 5 years after the index procedure, followed by RS and PTs. PTs for TN resulted in the highest utilization of healthcare resources and need for reoperations at all time points. These findings should be considered in clinical decision-making when selecting appropriate treatment modalities in elderly patients with TN.

Xper-CT combined with laser-assisted navigation radiofrequency thermocoagulation in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia

Objective

Our objective was to study the clinical feasibility of Xper-CT combined with laser-assisted radiofrequency thermocoagulation in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis was made of 60 patients with trigeminal neuralgia who visited the Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University from January 2019 to May 2021. According to the different surgical methods, we were divided into C-arm X-ray group and laser navigation group. The operation time, operative complications, post-operative 24 h, post-operative 3 and 6 months Barrow Neurotics Institute (BNI) score were recorded and compared.

Results

Compared with the C-arm X-ray-guided puncture group, Xper-CT combined with laser-assisted navigation has the obvious advantages of shorter total puncture time, shorter surgical time, higher success rate of first puncture, and better surgical effect.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency therapy of trigeminal neuralgia with Xper-CT combined with laser-assisted navigation has a good clinical effect and can be promoted and applied.

Efficacy and complications of microvascular decompression in patients over 70 years with trigeminal neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

Treatment of choice for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) by neurovascular conflict in case of failure of medical treatment is microvascular decompression (MVD). It is a safe and effective technique in the short and long term. But what about older patients who are considered more fragile anesthetically and surgically? Our Objective is to demonstrate the efficacy and complication rate of microvascular decompression (MVD) for older and younger patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) due to neurovascular conflict.

METHODS

102 patients with TN due to neurovascular conflict were included (June 2005-December 2016) in a single Regional hospital. 25 were included in the group composed of ≥ 70-year-old patients (G1), while 77 were included in the < 70-year-old group (G2). The patients were operated on by the same surgical team using a retro-sigmoid approach to access the neurovascular conflict. The epidemiologic, clinical, anesthetic, and surgical data were extracted.

RESULTS

The immediate efficacy of surgical treatment (BNI pain intensity = I) was 96% in G1 and 96.10% in the G2 group (p = 0.71). At 3-year follow-up, the efficacy rate was 89% and 86%, respectively (p = 0.93). At 5 years, it was 92% and 92% (p = 0.98). Complication rates were comparable between the two groups (20% versus 27%; p = 0.47) and no deaths occurred despite the fact that G1 group had worst preoperative anesthetic score (ASA-NYHA).

CONCLUSION

MVD is a durable procedure in patients over 70 years of age diagnosed with essential TN. The complication rate and immediate-, medium-, and long-term efficacy were similar to those of younger patients.

Microvascular decompression in trigeminal neuralgia: predictors of pain relief, complication avoidance, and lessons learned

OBJECTIVE

To analyze characteristics associated with long-term pain relief after microvascular decompression (MVD) for trigeminal neuralgia (TGN). Description of associated morbidity and complication avoidance.

METHODS

One hundred sixty-five patients with TGN underwent 171 MVD surgeries at the authors' institution. Patient characteristics and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) datasets were obtained through the hospital's archiving system. Patients provided information about pre- and post-operative pain characteristics and neurologic outcome. Favorable outcome was defined as a Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity score of I to III with post-operative improvement of I grade.

RESULTS

Type of TGN pain with purely paroxysmal pain (p = 0.0202*) and TGN classification with classical TGN (p = 0.0372*) were the only significant predictors for long-term pain relief. Immediate pain relief occurred in 90.6% of patients with a recurrence rate of 39.4% after 3.5 ± 4.6 years. MRI reporting of a neurovascular conflict had a low negative predictive value of 39.6%. Mortality was 0% with major complications observed in 8.2% of patients. Older age was associated with lower complication rates (p = 0.0009***). Re-MVD surgeries showed improved long-term pain relief in four out of five cases.

CONCLUSIONS

MVD is a safe and effective procedure even in the elderly. It has the unique potential to cure TGN if performed on a regular basis, and if key surgical steps are respected. Early MVD should be offered in case of medical treatment failure and paroxysmal pain symptoms. The presence of a neurovascular conflict on MRI is not mandatory. In case of recurrence, re-MVD is a good treatment option that should be discussed with patients.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Long-term analysis of pain relief after MVD. • Positive predictors for outcome: classical TGN and purely paroxysmal pain. • Presence of neurovascular conflict in MRI is not mandatory for MVD surgery. • Analysis of complications and surgical nuances for avoidance. • MVD is a safe procedure also in the elderly.

The effectiveness and safety of neurosurgical treatment via retrosigmoid approach in elderly patients with trigeminal neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of retrosigmoid approach in treating older patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 49patients (65 and over, elderly group) and 85 patients (under 65, young group) underwent MVD, MVD + PSR or PSR for idiopathic TN from July 2009 to December 2018. The two groups were compared for immediate, long-term pain outcome and postoperative complications. All perioperative data were collected from medical records and telephone interviews. The pain outcomes were assessed with the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain score.

RESULTS

The length of follow-up was 13.2 to 124.8 months. 91.8% of the elderly patients and 89.4% of the young patients achieve "Good" immediate pain outcome (BNI I-II), the proportion were 73.5% and 60.0%, respectively, in long-term pain outcome. No statistically significant differences existed in the immediate and long-term pain outcome between the elderly and young patients (P = 0.768 and P = 0.116, respectively). In the grouping analysis, whether in the pure MVD group or the PSR-related group, the immediate and long-term pain outcomes of elderly patients were not significantly different from those of younger patients. Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in the incidence of neurological and non-neurological complications between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with young patients, the treatment for TN in elderly patients via retrosigmoid approach has the same favorable pain outcome. The safety of this procedure for elderly TN patients is similar to that in young patients.

Microvascular Decompression for Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Prospective, Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Microvascular decompression (MVD) is the most effective procedure for the long-term management of trigeminal neuralgia (TGN). However, retrospective and single-center studies are inherently biased, and there are currently no prospective, multicenter studies.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes and complications in patients with TGN who underwent MVD at specialized Japanese institutions.

METHODS

We enrolled patients with TGN who underwent MVD between April 2012 and March 2015. We recorded their facial pain grade and complications at 7 d (short term), 1 yr (mid-term), and 3 yr (long term) postoperatively.

RESULTS

There were 166 patients, comprising 60 men and 106 women (mean age 62.7 yr). Furthermore, 105 patients were aged over 60 yr. We conducted neuromonitoring in 84.3% of the cases. The complete pain relief, mortality, and complication rates at the short-term follow-up were 78.9%, 0%, and 16.3%, respectively. Overall, 155 patients (93.4%) completed the long-term follow-up, with the complete pain relief and complication rates of 80.0% and 5.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In the hands of experienced neurosurgeons, MVD for TGN can achieve high long-term curative effects. In addition, complications are uncommon and usually transient. Our results indicate that MVD is an effective and safe treatment for patients with TGN, including elderly patients.

Prognostic nomogram for percutaneous balloon compression in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia

Because of its convenience and safety, percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) has become a more popular remedy for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) recently. The objective of this study was to establish a nomogram that can be used to preoperatively prognosticate the likelihood of pain-free based on preoperative disease characteristics. Clinical data were collected from those TN cases who had undergone PBC during the period of 2015 and 2020 in Qingdao Municipal Hospital. We excluded the cases caused by space-occupying lesion or had undergone MVD, percutaneous glycerol rhizotomy (PGR), and glycerol rhizotomy (GR). A nomogram was established based on the results of multivariable logistic analysis. A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was applied to evaluate the reliability of models. The plotted decision curves were also used to assess the net benefit of nomogram-assisted decisions. Internal validation was performed using the ROC by bootstrap sampling. Finally, 16 cases and 69 cases were included into the ineffective and effective groups respectively. In the crude, adjust I and adjust II models, response to carbamazepine positively, the grade II or III compression severity score, and classical TN type were all considered to be significant predictors of pain relief (BNI grades I-III) at 3 months' follow-up. The AUC, accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of the nomogram system were 0.83, 0.85, 0.75, and 0.87 respectively for predicting patient outcomes. The decision curves showed good performance for the nomogram system in terms of clinical application, while more research with validation in multiple, external independent patient populations is needed.

An age-dependent outcome analysis of microvascular decompression and percutaneous thermocoagulation in trigeminal neuralgia

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a severe pain condition and the most common facial neuralgia. While microvascular decompression (MVD) presents an excellent treatment in neurovascular compression cases, percutaneous thermocoagulation (PT) of the ganglion Gasseri is an alternative option. This study aimed to evaluate post-operative complication rate and outcome of both treatment strategies related to the patient’s age.

Methods

The medical records of all patients with the diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia undergoing an MVD or PT of the ganglion Gasseri (between January 2007 and September 2017) were reviewed to determine the efficacy and the complication rate of both methods in regard to the patient’s age.

Results

Seventy-nine patients underwent MVD surgery and 39 a PT. The mean age of patients in the MVD group was 61 years and 73 years in the PT group. There were 59 (50%) female patients. Nerve-vessel conflict could be identified in 78 (98.7%) MVD and 17 (43.6%) PT patients on preoperative MRI. Charlson comorbidity index was significantly higher in PT group (2.4 (1.8) versus 3.8 (1.8) p < 0.001). The Barrow pain score (BPS) at the last follow-up demonstrated higher scores after PT (p = 0.007). The complication rate was markedly higher in PT group, mostly due to the facial hypesthesia (84.6% versus 27.8%; p < 0.001). Mean symptom-free survival was significantly shorter in the PT group (9 vs. 26 months, p < 0.001). It remained statistically significant when stratified into age groups: (65 years and older: 9 vs. 18 months, p = 0.001).

Duration of symptoms (OR 1.005, 95% CI 1.000–1.010), primary procedure (OR 6.198, 95% CI 2.650–14.496), patient age (OR 1.033, 95% CI 1.002–1.066), and postoperative complication rate (OR 2.777, 95% CI 1.309–5.890) were associated with treatment failure.

Conclusion

In this patient series, the MVD is confirmed to be an excellent treatment option independent of patient’s age. However, while PT is an effective procedure, time to pain recurrence is shorter, and the favorable outcome (BPS 1 and 2) rate is lower compared to MVD. Hence MVD should be the preferred treatment and PT should remain an alternative in very selected cases when latter is not possible but not in the elderly patient per se.

Microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia in the elderly: efficacy and safety

OBJECTIVE

The safety and efficacy of surgical microvascular decompression (MVD) in elderly patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is controversially discussed in the literature. A widespread reluctance to expose this cohort to major intracranial surgery persists. Our aim was to compare the efficacy and safety between older and younger patients with TN.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 139 MVD procedures (103 patients < 70 and 36 patients ≥ 70) were included. Surgical fitness was assessed by the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) grade. The pain-free interval was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier analysis only in patients with a recent follow-up visit. Independent risk factors for recurrence in patients with a minimum 12-month follow-up were determined.

RESULTS

Patients ≥ 70 showed a significantly higher number of comorbidities. Pain intensity, affection of trigeminal branches and symptom duration was similar between groups. No significant difference in treatment associated complications and permanent neurological deficits was shown. There was no treatment-related mortality. A tendency towards a lower recurrence rate in patients < 70 did not reach statistical significance (17.6% vs. 28.6%, P = 0.274). Pain-free interval was not different between both cohorts (78.7 vs. 73.5 months, P = 0.391).

CONCLUSION

Despite a higher prevalence of comorbidities in elderly patients, complication rates and neurological deficits after MVD were comparable to younger patients. Rates of immediate and long-term pain relief compared favorably to previous studies and were similar between elderly and younger patients. These data endorse MVD as a safe and effective first-line surgical procedure for elderly patients with TN and neurovascular conflict on MRI.

Life-threatening complications after microvascular decompression procedure: Lessons from a consecutive series of 596 patients

The microvascular decompression procedure (MVD) is widely utilized on patients with neurovascular compression syndromes, such as trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm and glossopharyngeal neuralgia, which have failed medical therapy. However, surgical complications are an ongoing problem. We retrospectively reviewed a total of 596 patients undergoing MVD in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from January 2008 to December 2018. Furthermore, we discussed the cases with life-threatening complications to determine the potential causes, aiming to achieve the goal of safer microvascular decompression. There were seven cases with life-threatening complications. Of those complications, one was cerebellar infarction with acute hydrocephalus, one was infarction of the cerebellum and the brain stem with acute hydrocephalus and serious intracranial infection, two were cerebellar haematoma, one was multiple haemorrhage with acute hydrocephalus, one was supratentorial subdural haematoma, and one was cerebellar swelling with acute hydrocephalus. After therapy, one patient died, one was in a persistent vegetative state, and five were discharged from the hospital upon recovery. In brief, MVD is a safe operation, and life-threatening complications accompanying MVD are rare, but require attention. The causes of some life-threatening complications are still not completely clear. Surgeons should continuously improve surgical techniques and perioperative care to reduce potential risks.

Long-term pain outcomes in elderly patients with trigeminal neuralgia: comparison of first-time microvascular decompression and stereotactic radiosurgery

OBJECTIVE

Common surgical treatments for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) include microvascular decompression (MVD) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The use of MVD in elderly patients has been described but has yet to be prospectively compared to SRS, which is well-tolerated and noninvasive. The authors aimed to directly compare long-term pain control and adverse event rates for first-time surgical treatments for idiopathic TN in the elderly.

METHODS

A prospectively collected database was reviewed for TN patients who had undergone treatment between 1997 and 2017 at a single institution. Standardized collection of preoperative demographics, surgical procedure, and postoperative outcomes was performed. Data analysis was limited to patients over the age of 65 years who had undergone a first-time procedure for the treatment of idiopathic TN with at least 1 year of follow-up.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-three patients meeting the study inclusion criteria underwent surgical procedures for TN during the study period (54 MVD, 24 MVD+Rhiz, 115 SRS). In patients in whom an artery was not compressing the trigeminal nerve during MVD, a partial sensory rhizotomy (MVD+Rhiz) was performed. Patients in the SRS cohort were older than those in the MVD and MVD+Rhiz cohorts (mean ± SD, 79.2 ± 7.8 vs 72.9 ± 5.7 and 70.9 ± 4.8 years, respectively; p < 0.0001) and had a higher mean Charlson Comorbidity Index (3.8 ± 1.1 vs 3.0 ± 0.9 and 2.9 ± 1.0, respectively; p < 0.0001). Immediate or short-term postoperative pain-free rates (Barrow Neurological Institute [BNI] pain intensity score I) were 98.1% for MVD, 95.8% for MVD+Rhiz, and 78.3% for SRS (p = 0.0008). At the last follow-up, 72.2% of MVD patients had a favorable outcome (BNI score I-IIIa) compared to 54.2% and 49.6% of MVD+Rhiz and SRS patients, respectively (p = 0.02). In total, 0 (0%) SRS, 5 (9.3%) MVD, and 1 (4.2%) MVD+Rhiz patients developed any adverse event. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis demonstrated that procedure type (p = 0.001) and postprocedure sensory change (p = 0.003) were statistically significantly associated with pain control.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study cohort, patients who had undergone MVD had a statistically significantly longer duration of pain freedom than those who had undergone MVD+Rhiz or SRS as their first procedure. Fewer adverse events were seen after SRS, though the MVD-associated complication rate was comparable to published rates in younger patients. Overall, the results suggest that both MVD and SRS are effective options for the elderly, despite their advanced age. Treatment choice can be tailored to a patient's unique condition and wishes.

Microvascular Decompression Surgery for Elderly Patients: A Study Based on Proposals from the Joint Committee of the Japan Gerontological Society and the Japan Geriatrics Society

The present study evaluated the indications for microvascular decompression (MVD) in elderly patients based on the new classification of the elderly population proposed by the joint committee of the Japan Gerontological Society and the Japan Geriatrics Society in 2017.

Retrospective analysis of 171 patients with hemifacial spasm (HFS), trigeminal neuralgia (TN), and glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN) who underwent MVD in 2018. Patients were divided into three groups based on the proposal: old group, 75–89 years; pre-old group, 65–74 years; and not-old group, 64 years or younger. Preoperative comorbidities were divided into five types and the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA-PS) was recorded. Outcome of the surgery and neurological complications were evaluated in June 2019.

No decrease in activity of daily living occurred in any patient and surgical results showed no difference among the three groups. Rate of preoperative cardiovascular diseases was higher in both the pre-old and old groups compared with the not-old group (p <0.001 and Cramer V = 0.429). In terms of ASA-PS classification, only ASA-PS I and II were found, and rate of ASA-PS II was higher in the pre-old and old groups compared with the not-old group (p <0.001 and Cramer V = 0.407). Some patients suffered from elevated blood pressure after surgery, but were successfully managed.

In conclusion, MVD for elderly patients can be achieved safely with careful patient selection and perioperative management. Data should be continuously accumulated for the future development of decision-making algorithm for MVD in the elderly.

Microvascular decompression for treating classical trigeminal neuralgia: can we offer the gold standard therapy to older patients?

PURPOSE

Microvascular decompression is the most successful procedure for treating classic trigeminal neuralgia. However, due to the risks of surgery and anesthesia, the procedure is performed less frequently in older patients. The aim of the study is to investigate the intraoperative and perioperative morbidity in older patients who underwent this surgical treatment.

METHODS

Patients who underwent microvascular decompression in our department between 2004 and 2016 were divided into two age groups (A: < 69 years old, n = 114; B: ≥ 70 years old, n = 47). Retrospectively, the pre-, intra- and postoperative data were analyzed.

RESULTS

Older patients showed a statistically significant prolonged duration of symptoms until surgery (mean 127 months vs. 70 months; p < 0.001). They also showed a significantly increased necessity for duroplasty (p = 0.015), but with no increased incidence of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage or rhinoliquorrhea. A comparable postoperative course was found in both groups. Over 90% in both groups had a significantly postoperative improvement. There were no cardiopulmonary complications or infections in either group. In the 3-month follow-up, there was a comparable success of pain reduction and no increased incidence of sensory disturbances.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the high chances of success and low morbidity, microvascular decompression should also be offered to older patients with anesthesiologic agreement.

Adverse Events After Microvascular Decompression: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Analysis

BACKGROUND

Although microvascular decompression (MVD) is a durable treatment for medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia, hemifacial spasm, or glossopharyngeal neuralgia attributable to neurovascular conflict, few national studies have analyzed predictors of postoperative complications.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence and risk factors for adverse events after MVD.

METHODS

Patients who underwent MVD were extracted from the prospectively collected National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry (2006-2017). Multivariable logistic regression identified predictors of 30-day adverse events and unplanned readmission; multivariable linear regression analyzed predictors of a longer hospital stay.

RESULTS

Among the 1005 patients evaluated, the mortality was 0.3%, major neurologic complication rate 0.4%, and 2.8% had a nonroutine hospital discharge. Patient age was not a predictor of any adverse events. Statistically significant independent predictors both of any adverse event (9.2%) and of a longer hospitalization were American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification III-IV designation and longer operative duration (P ≤ 0.03) The 30-day readmission rate was 6.8%, and the most common reasons were surgical site infections (22.4%) and cerebrospinal fluid leakage (14.3%). Higher ASA classification, diabetes mellitus, and operative time were predictors of readmission (P < 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

In this National Surgical Quality Improvement Program analysis, postoperative morbidity and mortality after MVD was low. Patient age was not a predictor of postoperative complications, whereas higher ASA classification, diabetes mellitus, and longer operative duration were predictive of any adverse event and readmission. ASA classification provided superior risk stratification compared with the total number of patient comorbidities or laboratory values. These data can assist with preoperative patient counseling and risk stratification.

Quantitative analysis of the safety and efficacy of microvascular decompression for patients with trigeminal neuralgia above and below 65 years of age

For medically-refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TN), microvascular decompression (MVD) is the first-line treatment, and has demonstrated the greatest efficacy and durability. However, due to potential surgical complications, a bias may exist against performing MVD in elderly patients. We sought to determine through a quantitative analysis whether MVD in the elderly is a safe and effective procedure for TN. We completed a Pubmed/SCOPUS literature search up to 12/2016 for eligible studies on MVD for TN. Only research articles with age stratification of results were included. In this quantitative analysis, we analyzed the data for the six articles identified in the literature comparing MVD for a group of patients ≥65 years with an elderly group <65 years. A total of 1483 were included. 455 patients were ≥65 years (mean 70.8 years, range 65-89 years) and 1028 patients were <65 years (mean 53.4 years, range 19-64 years). Composite mean follow-up time was 51.6 months for the elderly group, and 55.1 months for the young group. Following MVD, each group had 1 mortality (p = 0.43). There were 21 serious morbidities in the elderly group (4.62%) and 32 in the young group (3.11%) (p = 0.11). In addition, 15 patients (1.46%) in the elderly group and 24 patients (1.62%) in the young group experienced a cerebrospinal fluid leak (p = 0.23). TN recurrence rates 9.23% in the young group and 13.33% in the elderly group (p = 0.070). In conclusion, for properly-selected surgical candidates, MVD should not be ruled out on the basis of age ≥65 years.

Prospective comparison of long-term pain relief rates after first-time microvascular decompression and stereotactic radiosurgery for trigeminal neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

Common surgical treatments for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) include microvascular decompression (MVD), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Although the efficacy of each procedure has been described, few studies have directly compared these treatment modalities on pain control for TN. Using a large prospective longitudinal database, the authors aimed to 1) directly compare long-term pain control rates for first-time surgical treatments for idiopathic TN, and 2) identify predictors of pain control.

METHODS

The authors reviewed a prospectively collected database for all patients who underwent treatment for TN between 1997 and 2014 at the University of California, San Francisco. Standardized collection of data on preoperative clinical characteristics, surgical procedure, and postoperative outcomes was performed. Data analyses were limited to those patients who received a first-time procedure for treatment of idiopathic TN with > 1 year of follow-up.

RESULTS

Of 764 surgical procedures performed at the University of California, San Francisco, for TN (364 SRS, 316 MVD, and 84 RFA), 340 patients underwent first-time treatment for idiopathic TN (164 MVD, 168 SRS, and 8 RFA) and had > 1 year of follow-up. The analysis was restricted to patients who underwent MVD or SRS. Patients who received MVD were younger than those who underwent SRS (median age 63 vs 72 years, respectively; p < 0.001). The mean follow-up was 59 ± 35 months for MVD and 59 ± 45 months for SRS. Approximately 38% of patients who underwent MVD or SRS had > 5 years of follow-up (60 of 164 and 64 of 168 patients, respectively). Immediate or short-term (< 3 months) postoperative pain-free rates (Barrow Neurological Institute Pain Intensity score of I) were 96% for MVD and 75% for SRS. Percentages of patients with Barrow Neurological Institute Pain Intensity score of I at 1, 5, and 10 years after MVD were 83%, 61%, and 44%, and the corresponding percentages after SRS were 71%, 47%, and 27%, respectively. The median time to pain recurrence was 94 months (25th–75th quartiles: 57–131 months) for MVD and 53 months (25th–75th quartiles: 37–69 months) for SRS (p = 0.006). A subset of patients who had MVD also underwent partial sensory rhizotomy, usually in the setting of insignificant vascular compression. Compared with MVD alone, those who underwent MVD plus partial sensory rhizotomy had shorter pain-free intervals (median 45 months vs no median reached; p = 0.022). Multivariable regression demonstrated that shorter preoperative symptom duration (HR 1.005, 95% CI 1.001–1.008; p = 0.006) was associated with favorable outcome for MVD and that post-SRS sensory changes (HR 0.392, 95% CI 0.213–0.723; p = 0.003) were associated with favorable outcome for SRS.

CONCLUSIONS

In this longitudinal study, patients who received MVD had longer pain-free intervals compared with those who underwent SRS. For patients who received SRS, postoperative sensory change was predictive of favorable outcome. However, surgical decision making depends upon many factors. This information can help physicians counsel patients with idiopathic TN on treatment selection.

Outcomes of Two-Isocenter Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Patients with Typical Trigeminal Neuralgia: Pain Response and Quality of Life

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of 2-isocenter Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) by reviewing patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) from the last 10 years.

METHODS

A total of 247 patients were followed up and the Barrow Neurological Institute scale was used to evaluate pain degree. Patients' age, gender, pain duration and location, preoperative/postoperative Barrow Neurological Institute scale score, time to initial pain relief, recurrence time, and complications were documented and analyzed.

RESULTS

Patients who underwent a 2-isocenter GKS achieved earlier initial pain relief. The median time of initial pain relief was 2.0 months. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the patients with a shorter history of TN and the patients without preoperative surgery achieved earlier initial pain relief. During the 122.8 months of follow-up, the median time of recurrence-free pain relief was 49.7 months. Age was found to be a risk factor of recurrence. Patients who underwent 2-isocenter GKS had a higher rate of postoperative facial numbness, but only 9 cases reported bothersome facial numbness. Multibranch involvement was a risk factor for postoperative facial numbness.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with other modalities, 2-isocenter GKS was a safe and highly effective option for patients with TN. However, more data need to be collected to verify its long-term effect.

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.

Standardized reporting of adverse events after microvascular decompression of cranial nerves; a population-based single-institution consecutive series

OBJECTIVE

To investigate frequencies of adverse events occurring within 30 days after microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery using a standardized report form of adverse events.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 98 adult patients (≥16 years) treated with MVD between 1 January 1994 and 1 June 2013. Adverse events occurring within 30 days were classified according to the Landriel Ibanez classification for neurosurgical complications: grade I represents any non-life threatening complication treated without invasive procedures; grade II is complications requiring invasive management; grade III is life-threatening adverse events requiring treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU); grade IV is death as a result of complications. We sought to compare our results with reports from the literature.

RESULTS

Patients' median age was 61 years (range 26-83), and 64 (65 %) were females. Indications for MVD were trigeminal neuralgia (n = 77, 79 %), glossopharyngeal neuralgia (n = 4, 4 %), hemifacial spasm (n = 16, 16 %) and combined trigeminal neuralgia and hemifacial spasm (n = 1, 1 %). The overall 30-day complication rate was 20 %, with 14 % grade I complications, 5 % grade II complications and 1 % grade III complications. The comparison with the literature was hampered by the diverse and unsystematic way of reporting complications.

CONCLUSION

We provide a standardized report of postoperative complications in a consecutive patient series undergoing MVD. Due to the heterogeneous and non-standardized reporting of complications in the literature, it is difficult to know if our 20 % complication rate is low or high. Standardized reporting is a necessity for meaningful and more valid comparisons across studies. The safety of MVD, a fairly standardized neurosurgical procedure, is well suited for comparisons across centers provided that complications are reported in a standardized manner.

Microsurgical treatment of trigeminal neuralgia in patients older than 70 years: An efficacy and safety study

INTRODUCTION

The increasing incidence of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) with age together with population ageing call for reexamination of surgical treatment options for refractory TN in elderly patients.

METHODS

Retrospective review of a consecutive series of patients older than 70 who underwent microvascular decompression (MVD) for refractory TN between 1997 and 2015. Outcomes based on the Barrow Neurological Institute pain intensity score (BNI score) and surgical complications were compared to those of patients younger than 70 undergoing MVD in the same period.

RESULTS

Forty patients older than 70 (mean = 74.8 years) underwent interventions. At a mean follow-up time of 34 months, 73% of the patients presented complete absence of pain without medication (BNI I) and 85% had good pain control with or without medication (BNI I-III). A comparison of these patients with the 85 patients younger than 70 treated surgically during the same period did not find a significant association between age and achievement of pain control (BNI I-II). However, there was a significant association between age older than 70 and complete pain relief (BNI I; P=.03). The mean hospital stay in patients over 70 was also significantly longer (P=.04), although the postsurgical complication rate was similar to that in younger patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly patients with refractory TN may benefit from treatment with MVD and the probability of success and surgical risk are comparable to those in younger patients.

Safety of microvascular decompression for elderly patients with trigeminal neuralgia

OBJECTIVE

The present study compared the safety and efficacy of microvascular decompression (MVD) in groups of elderly patients and non-elderly patients with medically refractory trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and collected detailed perioperative data.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of clinical data was performed in 99 patients who underwent MVD from May 2012 to June 2015. The outcome data from 27 MVD operations for 27 patients aged 70-80 years (mean 74.6 years) were compared with 72 MVD operations with 72 patients aged 25-69 years (mean 55.7 years). Preoperative comorbidities were recorded and postoperative worsening comorbidities and non-neurological complications were evaluated at discharge. Efficacy of the surgery and neurological complications were evaluated in July 2015.

RESULTS

No decrease in activity of daily living was found in any patient. Complete pain relief without medication was achieved in 77.8% and partial pain relief in 14.8% in the elderly group, and 83.3% and 9.7%, respectively, in the non-elderly group (p=0.750). Permanent neurological complication was not observed in the elderly group, whereas Vth nerve and VIIIth nerve complications were observed in the non-elderly group. Rates of preoperative multiple comorbidities and of cardiovascular comorbidity were significantly higher in the elderly group (p<0.01). Worsening comorbidity and new pathology at discharge were mainly hypertension in both groups, but glaucoma attack and asthma attack were observed in the elderly group. All pathologies were successfully managed.

CONCLUSIONS

MVD for elderly patients with TN can be achieved safely with careful perioperative management. Information of comorbidity should be shared with all staff involved in the treatment, who should work as a team to avoid worsening comorbidity. The possibility of unpredictable events in the elderly patients should always be considered.

Pure Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal Approach for Nonfunctioning Pituitary Adenomas in the Elderly: Surgical Outcomes and Complications in 158 Patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach (EETA) for nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) in the elderly population.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of operative cases over a 7-year period, in which 158 elderly patients (age 65 years and older) who underwent a pure EETA to remove a pituitary adenoma were identified and compared with a series of 155 younger patients (age 40-55 years) who underwent the same procedure during the same period. The medical charts of the patients were reviewed to collect demographic information, such as age, sex, clinical symptoms, tumor size, the extent of tumor resection, clinical outcome, and complications.

RESULTS

In the elderly group, total resection was achieved in 120 patients (75.9%), and 124 patients (78.5%) achieved significant postsurgical visual remission. In the younger group, total resection was achieved in 119 patients (76.8%), with 126 patients (81.2%) achieving significant postsurgical visual remission. Regarding surgical complications in the elderly group, transient diabetes insipidus occurred postoperatively in 28 (17.8%) patients, and permanent diabetes insipidus occurred in 7 (4.4%) patients. Six (6.4%) patients experienced postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and new developments of anterior hypopituitarism occurred in 15 (9.5%) cases. In the younger group, 21 (13.6%) patients developed transient diabetes insipidus postoperatively, and 5 (3.2%) patients experienced permanent diabetes insipidus. Six (3.9%) patients reported postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and 13 (8.4%) patients developed a new anterior hypopituitarism. There were no cases of either carotid artery injury or death in either group. During the follow-up (mean, 32 months), 11 (6.9%) patients experienced tumor recurrence in the elderly group compared with 24 (15.5%) patients in the younger group. Of the 15 elderly patients who developed new hypopituitarism, 13 (86.7%) recovered without hormone replacement; accordingly, the rate of hypopituitarism remission was 84.6% in the younger patients.

CONCLUSIONS

NFPAs in the elderly can be resected via a pure endoscopic technique with low morbidity and mortality.

[Microvascular decompresion for trigeminal neuralgia, report of 36 cases and literature review]

Objetivo:

El propósito del presente trabajo es presentar los resultados de 36 pacientes con diagnóstico de neuralgia del trigémino (NT), en los cuales se realizó una descompresión microvascular (DMV).

Material y Método:

Desde junio de 2005 a mayo de 2012, 36 pacientes con diagnóstico de NT fueron operados por el primer autor (AC), realizando una DMV. Se evaluó: Edad, sexo, tiempo de sintomatología previo a la cirugía, hallazgos intraoperatorios (a través de los videos quirúrgicos), y resultados postoperatorios.

Resultados:

De los 36 pacientes operados, 25 fueron mujeres y 11 varones. El promedio de edad fue de 48 años. El seguimiento postoperatorio fue en promedio de 38 meses. De los 36 pacientes, 32 (88%) evolucionaron sin dolor hasta la fecha. De los 4 casos con recurrencia de dolor, en dos pacientes se observó como hallazgo intraoperatorio un conflicto venoso.

Conclusión:

La DMV como tratamiento de la NT es un procedimiento efectivo y seguro. El hallazgo intraoperatorio de una “compresión” venosa podría indicar una evolución postoperatoria desfavorable.

Microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia

The microvascular decompression procedure has proven to be a safe and effective option in the surgical management of neurovascular compression syndromes in general and trigeminal neuralgia in particular. This article aims to serve as an overview of the decision-making process, application of the surgical technique, and clinical outcome pertaining to this procedure.

Proposal for evaluating the quality of reports of surgical interventions in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia: the Surgical Trigeminal Neuralgia Score

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to design a checklist with a scoring system for reporting on studies of surgical interventions for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and to validate it by a review of the recent literature.

METHODS

A checklist with a scoring system, the Surgical Trigeminal Neuralgia Score (STNS), was devised partially based on the validated STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) criteria and customized for TN after a literature review and then applied to a series of articles. These articles were identified using a prespecified MEDLINE and Embase search covering the period from 2008 to 2010. Of the 584 articles found, 59 were studies of interventional procedures for TN that fulfilled the inclusion criteria and 56 could be obtained in full. The STNS was then applied independently by 3 of the authors.

RESULTS

The maximum STNS came to 30, and was reliable and reproducible when used by the 3 authors who performed the scoring. The range of scores was 6-23.5, with a mean of 14 for all the journals. The impact factor scores of the journals in which the papers were published ranged from 0 to 4.8. Twenty-four of the studies were published in the Journal of Neurosurgery or in Neurosurgery. Studies published in neurosurgical journals ranked higher on the STNS scale than those published in nonneurosurgical journals. There was no statistically significant correlation between STNS and impact factors. Stereotactic radiosurgery (n = 25) and microvascular decompression (n = 15) were the most commonly reported procedures. The diagnostic criteria were stated in 35% of the studies, and 4 studies reported subtypes of TN. An increasing number of studies (46%) used the recommended Kaplan-Meier methodology for pain survival outcomes. The follow-up period was unclear in 8 studies, and 26 reported follow-ups of more than 5 years. Complications were reported fairly consistently but the temporal course was not always indicated. Direct interview, telephone conversation, and questionnaires were used to measure outcomes. Independent assessment of outcome was only clearly stated in 7 studies. Only 2 studies used the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey to measure quality of life and 4 studies reported on the severity of preoperative pain. The Barrow Neurological Institute pain questionnaire was the most commonly used outcome measure (n = 13), followed by the visual analog scale.

CONCLUSIONS

Similar to the STROBE criteria that provide a checklist of items that should be included in reports of observational studies in general, the authors' suggested checklist for the STNS could help editors and reviewers ensure that quality reports are published, and could prove useful for colleagues when reporting their results specifically on the surgical management of TN. It would help the patient and clinicians make a decision about selecting the appropriate neurosurgical procedure.

Microvascular decompression for primary trigeminal neuralgia : short-term follow-up results and prognostic factors

Objective

The aim of this prospective study was to demonstrate the influence of some factors on the prognosis of microvascular decompression in 37 patients with trigeminal neuralgia.

Methods

The results of microvascular decompression (MVD) in 37 patients with trigeminal neuralgia were evaluated at 6 months after surgery and were compared with clinical and operative findings.

Results

The sex of the patient, the patient's age at surgery, the side of the pain, and the duration of symptoms before surgery did not play any significant roles in prognosis. Also, the visual analogue scale (VAS) of the patient, the duration of each pain attack, and the frequency of pain over 24 hours did not play any significant roles in prognosis. In addition, intraoperative detection of the type of conflicting vessel, the degree of severity of conflict, and the location of the conflict around the circumference of the root did not play any roles in prognosis. The only factors affecting the prognosis in MVD surgery were intraoperative detection of the site of the conflict along the root and neuroradiological compression signs on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated that if neurovascular compression is seen on preoperative MRI/MRA and/or compression is found intraoperative at the root entry zone, then the patient will most likely benefit from MVD surgery.

Management of bilateral trigeminal neuralgia with trigeminal radiofrequency rhizotomy: a treatment strategy for the life-long disease

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous controlled radiofrequency trigeminal rhizotomy (RF-TR) in patients with bilateral trigeminal neuralgia (BTN). Patients were analyzed after RF-TR in terms of outcome, safety and complications.

METHODS

Eighty-nine BTN patients underwent 186 RF-TR procedures. Eighty-seven patients had idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITN) and two patients had multiple sclerosis (2.2%). Fifty-six (62.9%) were women and 33 (37.1%) were men. Ages ranged from 29 to 85 years. Anesthesia was administered at a determined optimal level, allowing patient cooperation for controlled and selective lesioning.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 101.71 ± 77.7 months. Familial occurrence was seen in two (2.2%) patients. Synchronized pain was observed in 25 (28.2%) patients. Pain occurrence on the contralateral side was observed with an average duration of 124.7 ± 87.13 months. Fifty-four of the 89 patients underwent 146 RF-TR procedures for both sides and 35 underwent 40 RF-TR procedures for one side. Complete pain relief or partial satisfactory pain relief was achieved on the medically treated side in 35 patients. During follow-up, 36 patients required the second procedure and 7 required the third procedure. Acute pain relief was reported in 86 (96.6%) patients. Early (<6 months) pain recurrence was observed in 11 (12.3%) and late (>6 months) recurrence in 25 (28.0%) patients. Complications included diminished corneal reflex in four (2.1%) patients, keratitis in two (1.1%), masseter dysfunction in four (2.1%), dysesthesia in two (1.1%), and anesthesia dolorosa in one (0.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

RF-TR is an effective, selective, well-controlled, and effortlessly repeatable procedure for treating BTN, especially in the elderly, in terms of low morbidity and mortality rates and high rate of satisfactory pain relief.