CT-guided radiofrequency thermocoagulation of the trigeminal ganglion

  Advantages of radiofrequency thermocoagulation: 1. less risky surgery and few serious complications; 2. better monitoring of the degree of injury with thermocouple electrodes, and the size of the injury can be effectively controlled; 3. electrical stimulation localization and electrical impedance monitoring; 4. most radiofrequency thermocoagulation procedures can be performed under local anesthesia; 5. low complication rate when correctly applied; 6. repeatable treatment when needed; Hebei Ren Yu’e, Department of Pain, Second Hospital of Medical University 7. Compared with microvascular decompression surgery, it is relatively easy to operate and has good pain relief. It can eliminate the pain and preserve the sense of touch for the most part.  The efficacy of radiofrequency thermocoagulation: the summary of literature shows that patients can achieve pain disappearance in the near future, and the recurrence rate is 25%-35% in 5-10 years. The early onset of hyperalgesia in the trigeminal region and reversible masticatory muscle palsies are normal. 80% of sensory disturbances disappear, but 5% of patients have unpleasant sensory loss or hyperalgesia.