Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia affects around 150,000 Americans today. If you have excruciating spells of facial pain due to trigeminal neuralgia, esteemed neurosurgeon Phillip Henkin, MD, can help you enjoy a pain-free life again at the NeuroSpine Center. As the most experienced neurosurgeon in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Henkin provides leading-edge trigeminal neuralgia solutions using minimally invasive techniques. Call the office now or click the online booking feature for help.

What is trigeminal neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is bouts of severe shocklike facial pain. It’s sometimes called the most extreme pain humans can experience.

This condition affects the trigeminal nerve, which supplies sensation to many parts of your face. The trigeminal nerve branches to the jaw, nasal passages, cheeks, and other areas, so trigeminal neuralgia can cause pain all over your face.

I have facial pain. Is it trigeminal neuralgia? 

Trigeminal neuralgia occurs in bouts that can last from seconds to minutes. It can cause pain in areas including:

• Cheeks
• Teeth
• Lips
• Gums
• Jaw

The pain can occur during ordinary activities like brushing your teeth, shaving, or blowing your nose. The pain usually affects one side of the face. Over time, the bouts of pain can grow more intense and last longer.

What causes trigeminal neuralgia?

There are two forms of trigeminal neuralgia, primary and secondary, each with unique causes. 

Primary trigeminal neuralgia

With primary trigeminal neuralgia, nerve compression, usually at the point where the brain and spinal cord connect, is the leading cause. Usually, it happens when a blood vessel pressures the trigeminal nerve.

Secondary trigeminal neuralgia

Secondary trigeminal neuralgia develops as a complication of other conditions. Examples include multiple sclerosis (MS), cysts, tumors, stroke, and facial trauma.

Is trigeminal neuralgia treatable?

Trigeminal neuralgia is treatable. Neurosurgeons like Dr. Henkin are best suited to treat trigeminal neuralgia because they have specialized training in all aspects of the nervous system.

Dr. Henkin understands what you’re going through, and he won’t rest until you’re feeling better. He uses the most conservative approaches whenever possible, including medication, including anticonvulsants and antispasmodics.

In addition, Dr. Henkin is an elite surgeon with unique experience in trigeminal neuralgia treatment, using the most up-to-date technology. Treatments include:

Radiosurgery

In radiosurgery, Dr. Henkin delivers radiation to the root of your trigeminal nerve. This controlled damage prevents trigeminal nerve pain for 3-5 years.

Microvascular decompression

In microvascular decompression, Dr. Henkin creates a tiny opening in your skull to access the point of trigeminal nerve pain. He then repositions or removes the blood vessels pressuring your trigeminal nerve.

Rhizotomy

Rhizotomy destroys the nerve fibers that trigger your pain. There are several rhizotomy methods, including heat and chemical lesioning.

The NeuroSpine Center offers personalized trigeminal neuralgia treatment with a long history of superior patient outcomes. Call the office today or book your appointment online today.