Percutaneous radio-frequency thermocoagulation with low temperature in the treatment of essential glossopharyngeal neuralgia.

Two cases of essential glossopharyngeal neuralgia treated successfully with percutaneous radio-frequency thermocoagulation are reported. In order to avoid cardiovascular complications due to interference with the vagus nerve, a modification of the technique previously used is proposed. The modification used in the cases presented here consists in the use of lower temperature during a shorter time with four progressive steps controlled with electrical stimulation. A small-surface active electrode, exact location in the petrous ganglion, permanent stimulation control, and a smaller thermal lesion are the cardinal features of the technique used in the cases reported.