Glycerol rhizotomy for trigeminal neuralgia

This procedure is very similar to radiofrequency ablation for trigeminal neuralgia. Once the needle is inserted next to the trigeminal nerve using x rays a special thick alcohol is injected which selectively damages the nerve. The damage is supposed to stop trigeminal neuralgia whilst keeping the normal functioning of the nerve. In practice the treatment does usually cause some mild numbness as well as stopping the pain. As with radiofrequency ablation there is a small risk of serious complications including anaesthesia dolorosa. This procedure does not require the anaesthetic to be lightened and the patient is deeply anaesthetised throughout the procedure.

For more details please read the description for radiofrequency ablation.