The effectiveness of trigeminal thermocoagulation for recurrent paroxysmal trigeminal neuralgia after previous intra-cranial surgery.

Six patients are described in whom recurrent trigeminal neuralgia was treated by thermocoagulation. Their initial symptoms had been relieved by intra-cranial operation usually many years previously. In the majority, cerebro-spinal fluid was obtained and physiological corroboration of probe placement was satisfactory. Symptoms were relieved in all cases. Trigeminal thermocoagulation is safe and effective in relieving recurrent trigeminal neuralgia in patients who have had a previous intra-cranial operation for their symptoms.