Trigeminal Neuralgia

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Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal Neuralgia is a rare and painfully debilitating neuropathic disorder. Commonly referred to as TN, the condition is a disorder of the trigeminal nerve, or the fifth cranial nerve that controls sensation to the face. TN is commonly known as the “suicide disease” due to the level of excruciating pain patients experience.

At Oncologics, we utzilize an interdisciplinary approach to treatment of refractory TN.

We work with specialists including neurosurgeons, neurologists, and radiation oncologists to carefully evaluate potential candidates for SRS. When medications are no longer alleviating TN pain, SRS may be a viable treatment option.

Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Sporadic and sudden severe pain on one side of the face feels like an electrical shock or stabbing and lasts several seconds or minutes. Pain can be triggered by eating, drinking, laughing, brushing teeth, talking or touching the face. People often seek dental care assuming that the pain is caused by their teeth. Pain tends to get worse over time and is considered one of the most painful medical conditions that exists.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)

1. Are there different types of TN?

Yes, with typical TN, patients suffer from unpredictable episodes of stabbing, electric shock-like pain in a consistent location. With atypical TN, the pain is a persistent, dull ache or burning sensation in one part of the face.

2. How can TN be treated?

Pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia is traditionally managed by medications as a first line of treatment. This may help, but some patients may require additional treatment such as radiation therapy or surgery.

3. How can Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) help TN?

SRS is an advanced, nonsurgical, outpatient radiation therapy option. SRS delivers highly focused radiation to the pain fibers of the trigeminal nerve. This interrupts the pain signals delivered to the brain.

4. How many SRS treatments are delivered to treat TN?

SRS is a one-time, non-invasive radiation treatment usually completed in less than one hour.

Benefits of Radiation Therapy:

Pain Free Treatment Delivery
Non-Invasive
Custom Tailored Treatment Plan
Little to No Side Effects
Immediate Return to Daily Activities
Minimal Radiation Exposure to Adjacent Healthy Tissue

Why Choose OncoLogics for Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment?

At OncoLogics, we understand how life-altering and painful trigeminal neuralgia can be. Our experienced team utilizes an interdisciplinary approach that brings together radiation oncologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons to develop highly personalized treatment plans for each patient. Using advanced stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), we provide a precise, non-invasive treatment option designed to help relieve pain while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.

Experienced multidisciplinary team focused on trigeminal neuralgia treatment
Advanced Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) technology designed for precision and accuracy
Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s symptoms and condition
Compassionate, patient-centered support throughout every stage of care
National guideline-based treatment recommendations and planning
Non-invasive outpatient treatment typically completed in a single session

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