The Role of Radiofrequency Ablation in the Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Meta-analysis
Objective:
This meta-analysis aims to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of RFA in treating TN by synthesizing data from studies published between 1998 and 2023.
Background:
Trigeminal nerve activation causes chronic and recurring face pain in trigeminal neuralgia (TN), a severe neuropathic pain illness. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a less intrusive alternative to traditional therapy that has just become available. It provides excellent pain relief for patients who have not benefited enough from standard therapies.
Design/Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was conducted, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The research included 12 studies with over 1,000 individuals. These studies primarily sought to evaluate the benefits of pain reduction and RFA-related complications rates. The combined data were examined using a random effects model and shown in a forest plot to visually depict the overall degree of variation and effect magnitude.
Results:
At six months, RFA reduced pain by more than 80%; about 60% of patients continued with treatment two years later. With unfavorable effects reported in fewer than 5% of participants, the operation has a low rate of complications, which are often described by temporary sensory abnormalities. Continuous radiofrequency (CRF) treatments were more successful in relieving pain in patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (TN) than pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) therapies. Nonetheless, PRF had a solid safety record, as shown by its low problem frequency.
Conclusions:
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a very successful and safe procedure for treating trigeminal neuralgia (TN), providing excellent pain relief with little side effects. The forest plot study confirms the consistency of these results and demonstrates RFA's continuing effectiveness across a wide range of patient demographics and research techniques. Long-term effects and appropriate patient selection should be the primary focus of future research to develop this therapeutic method.
Disclaimer: Abstracts were not reviewed by Neurology® and do not reflect the views of Neurology® editors or staff.