Until relatively recently, trigeminal neuralgia has been difficult to diagnose and treat, leaving those suffering with few options for relief. However, improved treatment options, including Gamma Knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia, are available because of increased awareness of the condition and the development of new technologies.
Whether you have only recently been diagnosed or have already undergone some form of treatment for your trigeminal neuralgia, you should seek out an expert in the condition, such as a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Blood tests and images cannot confirm a diagnosis, so you should discuss your symptoms with someone experienced in diagnosing and managing trigeminal neuralgia patients.
Let’s have a conversation about your trigeminal neuralgia.
Let’s have a conversation about your trigeminal neuralgia.
About Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition resulting from trigeminal nerve dysfunction. The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensory signals from the face to the brain. Patients experience pain in the areas innervated by the nerve, which can be intense and unrelenting without any identifiable cause. While anyone can develop the condition, it tends to affect women over age 50 and often occurs when a blood vessel near the brain puts pressure on the nerve, triggering constant painful sensations.
If you have been diagnosed, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan for your condition. The first step in treatment is generally medication, which can help reduce pain and prevent episodes. However, some patients will require further intervention, and Gamma Knife surgery for trigeminal neuralgia can be an excellent option.
About Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
Though it may sound like a surgical procedure, Gamma Knife radiosurgery is actually a specialized form of radiation treatment that does not require any incisions or even a hospital stay. Instead, Gamma Knife uses focused radiation beams to target only the area to be treated, sparing healthy surrounding tissue in a completely noninvasive manner and preventing many unpleasant side effects commonly associated with radiation therapy.
The procedure itself takes place in an outpatient setting, often within a hospital. You are awake through the entire treatment and can communicate with your care team at any time. During the procedure, you will wear a device called a frame on your head, which will help position you exactly where you need to be and prevent any movement.
Once the frame is secured, the doctor and radiology team will take and review several MRIs to finalize the treatment plan. When the team confirms everything, your treatment will begin. You will rest on a special table, keeping you stabilized and still throughout the procedure. Treatment typically takes between 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the location and size of the treatment area.
Side Effects and Risks of Gamma Knife Surgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Though Gamma Knife radiosurgery carries less risk than traditional surgery or radiation therapy, any medical procedure has potential side effects. Immediately following your treatment, you may feel a little nauseous or have a headache. If this occurs, your doctor can give you medications to help you feel more comfortable. That’s typically temporary and passes within a few days.
Some patients experience pain or swelling where the doctor positioned the frame on the scalp, which will subside within a few days. There could be a small amount of bleeding or itching as the pin sites heal. You may also feel fatigued during the first few days after your treatment, but this is usually far less severe than fatigue experienced following traditional radiation therapy. Sometimes swelling occurs approximately six months after your Gamma Knife radiosurgery. However, you can treat the swelling with medication, which your doctor will prescribe for you, if necessary. Your doctor will monitor you for any swelling at your follow-up appointments, so it is important you discuss any lingering or new symptoms you may be experiencing.
Recovery Following Gamma Knife Surgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Because of the minimally invasive nature of Gamma Knife radiosurgery, you will be able to go home the same day as your treatment and will not need to stay overnight in the hospital. Hospitals release most patients within a couple of hours of completion of the procedure. You will be able to resume your everyday activities, including returning to work, within a day or so.
Keep in mind that some patients will require more than one treatment session, and results are gradual and very individual. However, Gamma Knife radiosurgery for trigeminal neuralgia has demonstrated excellent results, with most patients experiencing relief from pain.
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Your Trigeminal Neuralgia
Whether your doctor has already recommended Gamma Knife radiosurgery for your trigeminal neuralgia or you have yet to receive a diagnosis, you should bring any questions or concerns to your next medical appointment. Trigeminal neuralgia has historically been difficult to diagnose and treat, but patients have more options than ever as research and practice have improved their understanding of the condition.
If your doctor has not discussed the possibility of Gamma Knife for trigeminal neuralgia, and medications have not provided relief, you may wish to ask about it or consider seeking someone who is experienced with the technology. With its demonstrated success and minimally invasive nature, Gamma Knife radiosurgery can be an excellent treatment option for many patients.
