Comparative study between effects of conventional and pulsed radiofrequency in the treatment of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

Objectives The aim of this study was to compare the effects of conventional radiofrequency (CRF) versus pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) in the treatment of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia pain. Background The treatment of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITN) is often a challenge in clinical practice. Nowadays, radiofrequency (RF) is one of the most effective options for treatment. Patients and methods A comparative study was carried out in Menoufia and Zagazig university hospitals. Overall, 40 adult patients suffering from ITN were randomly assigned to two groups (20 in each). The CRF group was treated with CRF and the PRF group was treated with PRF. Results There were significant improvements in both groups as regards Visual Analog Score and Patient Satisfaction Score, which was higher in the CRF group at 6 months of follow-up. The possibility of repeating RF was higher in the PRF group than in the CRF group. Conclusion Both CRF and PRF are effective in relieving pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia. PRF appears to be a relatively safe and effective procedure in the treatment of persistent pain of ITN in a shorter duration compared with CRF.