[Update on the management of trigeminal neuralgia]

Abstract

Trigeminal neuralgia is one of the most severe facial pain syndromes. The annual incidence varies between 4-13% and has a significant effect on patient quality of life. The initial treatment of trigeminal neuralgia is pharmacological, and although other drugs have demonstrated efficacy, albeit in more limited form, carbamazepine is the only drug with sufficient level of evidence. When medical treatment fails, surgery should be considered and can opt for open surgery or minimally invasive percutaneous techniques. This paper reviews the medical and surgical therapeutic options for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia, based on current available evidence.

Keywords: Actualización; Neuralgia del trigémino; Opciones de tratamiento; Treatment options; Trigeminal neuralgia; Update.