Application of a new method of revealing foramen ovale under X-ray in radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

Objective. This study is to apply a new method of revealing foramen ovale guided by digital X-ray imaging for precise puncture in radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.

Design. Thirty cases of patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia were chosen and treated by our newly discovered method, which features lateral cranial position, ‘mid-cranial fossa arc’ observation and temperature-controlled radiofrequency ablation using Hartel method of foramen ovale puncture guided by X-ray real time imaging. The success rate of the 30 cases was 100%, all of which were a one-time success with accurate positioning and satisfactory treatment effect. None of them were wrongly penetrated into other foramens or caused any complications.

Conclusion. By observing the bony mark ‘mid-cranial fossa arc’, foramen ovale can be clearly displayed in lateral cranial position and under the guidance of X-ray real time imaging this method can be applied successfully in precise puncture of foramen ovale in trigeminal neuralgia radiofrequency ablation.

Key words:

• Trigeminal neuralgia
• foramen ovale puncture
• X-ray guidance
• positioning method
• radiofrequency ablation

Acknowledgements

My special thanks are due to my co-workers, without whom this study could not be done. To their dedication and encouragement, I tribute a fervent thanks. I would also like to send a heartfelt acknowledgment to Cheng Qian for translating the article.

Declaration of interest:

I would like to take the chance to express my sincere gratitude to Jiangsu Province Science and Technology Department and Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University for financial assistance and the Public Hygiene College of Nantong University for providing the specimens for our research.