Combined extra-intradural temporal rhizotomy for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

✓ The authors describe a modified temporal trigeminal rhizotomy whereby the fifth nerve root is approached extradurally and then reached intradurally. The results obtained in 409 cases of trigeminal neuralgia are summarized. The method has no greater risks than the extradural method and has the advantage of a lower incidence of postoperative facial paralysis and a greater chance of sparing the motor root.