Salvage treatment of trigeminal neuralgia by occipital nerve stimulation

Abstract

Background: Although most patients suffering from trigeminal neuralgia (TN) respond to medical or surgical treatment, nonresponders remain in very severe painful condition. Case result: We describe for the first time a case of severe refractory classical TN treated successfully (follow-up one year) by chronic bilateral occipital nerve stimulation (ONS), because other classic medical and surgical options failed or could not be performed. Conclusions: This single case suggests that ONS might be offered to TN patients refractory both to standard drugs and interventions, with a favorable risk/benefit ratio, although its long-term efficacy remains unknown. © International Headache Society 2013.