Abstract

Lunshan Xu and Minhui Xu*

Our study analyzed the factors influencing the efficacy of percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizotomy in patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia. Eleven contributing factors influencing the efficacy of percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizotomy were identified by logistic regression analysis. Among 210 patients receiving percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizotomy, 67 underwent two procedures and 16 underwent three. Complete pain relief was achieved in 92.4% of patients. The presence of trigger point and painless in the procaine test were the predictors of complete pain relief. Painless in the procaine test is essential to achieve complete pain relief for patients with definite trigger points. Percutaneous retrogasserian glycerol rhizotomy is a minimally invasive, safe, and effective therapeutic strategy for trigeminal neuralgia patients. There are no adverse events or only few complications after surgery. A second injection may be effective for recurrent patients and those unresponsive to initial treatment.