Peripheral streptomycin/lidocaine injections in the treatment of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia. A preliminary report.

Streptomycin sulphate dissolved in 2% lidocaine solution was deposited adjacent to peripheral branches of maxillary or mandibular nerves in 20 patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia. The patients were given five injections at approximately one week intervals. In the postinjection period, once the local anaesthetic had worn off, apparently normal sensation returned. All patients obtained pain relief, only four having a recurrence of symptoms. The remaining 16 patients remained free of pain after periods of up to 30 months.