Trigeminal neuralgia (TN)iswidely considered one of the most painful conditions known to medicine. It causes sudden, severe, electric-shock-like pain on one side of the face — triggered by everyday activities like eating, speaking, brushing teeth, or even a gentle breeze. The pain typically lasts a few seconds to a couple of minutes but can occur in rapid succession, leaving patients living in fear of the next attack. At Nexus Pain & Spine, Mumbai, we have helped many patients regain their lives from the grip of this devastating condition.
TNoccurs whenthe trigeminalnerve (the main nerve supplying sensation to the face) is compressed, irritated, or damaged. The most common cause is a blood vessel pressing on the nerve near the brainstem. Multiple sclerosis, tumours, or nerve damage can also be responsible, though in some cases no specific cause is found.
Type 1 (TN1 / Classic TN)
Characterisedby sudden,severe, electric shock-like pain in bursts. Completely pain-free between episodes. Typically responds well to medications and procedures.
Type 2 (TN2 / Atypical TN)
Inaddition to sharp attacks, patients also experience constant background burning or aching pain. More challenging to treat, requiring a multimodal approach.
Medications — First-Line Treatment
Carbamazepine remains the gold-standard first-line medication for TN. We also use oxcarbazepine, gabapentin, pregabalin, and baclofen — often in combination — to achieve optimal control with minimal side effects.
Gasserian Ganglion Block
An injection targeting the trigeminal (Gasserian) ganglion — performed under fluoroscopic guidance — can provide significant pain relief, particularly when medications are insufficiently effective or poorly tolerated.
Pulsed Radiofrequency of the Trigeminal Ganglion
A non-destructive neuromodulation technique that reduces the nerve’s hyperactivity without causing permanent numbness. Increasingly used as a safe, effective option for TN.
Balloon Compression / Glycerol Rhizotomy
Minimally invasive neurosurgical techniques performed through a needle in the cheek, targeting the trigeminal ganglion. We coordinate with neurosurgical colleagues for these procedures when indicated.
Microvascular Decompression (MVD)
The only procedure that addresses the root cause — relieving the blood vessel compression on the nerve.
For suitable candidates, MVD has the highest long-term success rate of any TN treatment.
Trigeminal neuralgia is treatable. With the right diagnosis and a stepwise treatment approach, most patients achieve significant and lasting relief. Reach out to Nexus Pain & Spine, Mumbai — our specialists have the expertise and empathy to guide you through this journey.
We believe every ones pain is personal hence all our treatments are personalised.
Our team of pain specialists will be with you every step of the way.
