OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the roles of neuronavigation-assisted percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy in patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN). METHODS: Neuronavigation technique was applied in 12 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy for their primary TN. RESULTS: Neuronavigation assistance ensured precise puncture of oval foramen and successful targeting of trigeminal nerve ganglion in all 12 patients during percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy and resulted in 100% of acute cure rate of TN without major complications. CONCLUSIONS: Neuronavigation is a very useful tool during percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy in patients with primary TN.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the roles of neuronavigation-assisted percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy in patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia (TN). METHODS: Neuronavigation technique was applied in 12 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy for their primary TN. RESULTS: Neuronavigation assistance ensured precise puncture of oval foramen and successful targeting of trigeminal nerve ganglion in all 12 patients during percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy and resulted in 100% of acute cure rate of TN without major complications. CONCLUSIONS: Neuronavigation is a very useful tool during percutaneous radiofrequency thermocoagulation therapy in patients with primary TN.