Peripheral alcohol injections in the management of trigeminal neuralgia

Objective To assess the effectiveness of peripheral alcohol injections in the management of trigeminal neuralgia. Study design Retrospective case audit of patients who received peripheral alcohol injections in 1994-1999 was conducted. We examined for occurrence and duration of effect of alcohol blocks, the effect of age and repeated administration, and the effect of their use on other surgical treatments. Results Peripheral alcohol injections lasted for a mean of 11 months. Their effectiveness and complication rates were not affected by age or repeated administration. Their use did not affect, nor was their effectiveness affected by, the use of other surgical treatments. Conclusion Peripheral alcohol injections continue to have a role in the management of trigeminal neuralgia. They are particularly useful in those refractory to medical management and in those who are unable or unwilling to undergo neurosurgical treatment. Peripheral alcohol injections also have a role in those awaiting neurosurgical opinions or treatment.