The results of Gamma Knife stereotactic radiosurgery in the management of 51 patients who had typical trigeminal neuralgia were evaluated at the University of Pittsburgh. In all cases, a 4-mm isocenter was targeted at the proximal nerve at the root entry zone. The target dose varied from 60 to 90 Gy. Forty-four patients (86%) had undergone prior surgery. The mean follow-up after radiosurgery was 9.6 months (range, 2–29 months). The initial response rate was 86%. At the last follow-up, 19 patients (37%) had excellent control (pain free), 21 (41%) had good control (50–90% relief), and 11 (21 %) had failed treatment. No patient developed further sensory loss or deafferentation pain. A maximum radiosurgery dose ≧70 Gy was associated with a significantly greater chance for complete pain relief. Using magnetic resonance imaging stereotactic targeting, the proximal trigeminal nerve is an appropriate anatomic target for radiosurgery. Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a useful additional surgical approach in the management of medically or surgically refractory trigeminal neuralgia.

Keywords:
Trigeminal neuralgia, Pain, Gamma Knife, Radiosurgery
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© 1996 S. Karger AG, Basel
1997
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