Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition of excruciating facial pain. The pain can be triggered by cold air, eating, or brushing your teeth. It might last only moments, but the pain is so severe as to be incapacitating. Typically, it is caused by compression of the fifth cranial (trigeminal) nerve by a blood vessel. It may involve one, two or rarely all three branches of the nerve. It infrequently occurs on both sides of the face.
If medications are not effective, or the side effects of the medications are unacceptable, surgical treatment may be considered. The surgical approaches include blocking the fifth nerve transmission chemically or electrically, or- by open surgery: microvascular decompression, in which sponge-like material is placed between the trigeminal nerve and adjacent blood vessels to alleviate the pulsatile pressure from blood flow. Stereotactic Radiosurgery has shown excellent results as an alternative to surgery.
I’m dedicated to raising awareness about this disorder and providing relief to those affected. If you or someone you know is experiencing Trigeminal neuralgia, please don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Together, we can find effective treatments and improve the lives of those living with this condition.
Dr. Darakchiev is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon skilled in diagnosing and treating a variety of brain, spine and peripheral nerve disorders. To schedule an appointment, please call 631-690-9080.
