Trigeminal Neuralgia is a cranial nerve disorder that often inflicts sudden and intense facial pain on those who are afflicted. The trigeminal nerve is located in the base of the skull and the three branches run through the upper, middle, and lower portions on one, or both sides of the face. For those suffering from this disorder, the sudden pain can last anywhere from a few seconds, to several minutes and episodes are unpredictable and can occur at any time. Medication has been found to provide temporary relief, but its effectiveness can wane over time, leaving patients to search for more permanent solutions. For many, this search will lead them to Gamma Knife®️ surgery.
What is Gamma Knife Surgery?
Gamma Knife surgery is a minimally invasive radiation therapy that is used to treat a wide range of brain tumors and disorders. It has also been found to provide long-lasting pain relief to those patients suffering from Trigeminal neuralgia. Other treatment options for trigeminal neuralgia include microvascular decompression and rhizotomy, but these procedures can be invasive or lead to permanent side effects. In comparison, Gamma Knife is non-invasive and highly effective, with very little to no side effects. Gamma Knife treatment precisely targets the fifth cranial nerve located at the skull base and interrupts pain signals to the brain. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques and computer mapping to accurately target the nerve, Gamma Knife precisely uses a high dose of radiation to the affected area, without impacting any surrounding tissue that is still healthy.
How Effective is Gamma Knife Surgery?
Gamma Knife surgery has been found to provide acceptable pain relief for about 85 percent of treated patients. Since the procedure is non-invasive, recovery is prompt and very mild. On average, patients have noticed a difference within one to three months of receiving treatment.
What Does Post-Treatment Look Like?
After receiving treatment, patients will follow up with their radiation oncologist, neurosurgeon, and neurologist. Once the effectiveness of the treatment has been confirmed and lasting pain relief has been achieved, patients will begin tapering off of their trigeminal neuralgia medication. In some cases, the pain of trigeminal neuralgia can reoccur, but patients can explore their options when it comes to repeat treatments.
Learn More About South Sound Gamma Knife
South Sound Gamma Knife is the only Gamma Knife facility located between Seattle, WA and Portland, OR. It offers patients throughout the region a specially designed facility, state-of-the-art technology, and an unparalleled multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, radiation physicists, nurses and other professionals. Our focus is on the well-being of our patients and we are committed to alleviating the burdens of brain tumors and disorders.
If you or a loved one are suffering from the debilitating pain of trigeminal neuralgia and are ready for lasting pain relief without knives or incisions, then Gamma Knife surgery is a viable solution. Speak with your doctor about whether Gamma Knife treatment is right for you or call 866.254.3353 today to schedule an appointment and begin your pain-free journey.
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