Radiosurgical management of trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

Over the past several decades, stereotactic radiosurgery has become a viable noninvasive treatment option for patients with trigeminal neuralgia. The scientific literature regarding the radiosurgical treatment of trigeminal neuralgia has evolved to identify factors that predict both efficacy and toxicity. Radiosurgical management has, thus, become complementary to medical management, microvascular decompression, and percutaneous ablative procedures. Thus, effective management often requires multidisciplinary collaboration. The intent of this review is to discuss the role of radiosurgery in the modern management of trigeminal neuralgia and to review radiosurgical outcomes, targeting, and controversies.

Keywords: Facial pain; Stereotactic radiosurgery; Trigeminal neuralgia.