[CT guided neurolysis of the sphenopalatine ganglion for management of refractory trigeminal neuralgia].

The authors present the case of a patient with recurrent trigeminal neuralgia, refractory to medical treatment and ablation of the trigeminal ganglion, who underwent three separate CT guided injections for pterygopalatine ganglion ablation over a two year period. Ablation of the pterygopalatine ganglion may be an effective technique for pain management in patients suffering from atypical facial pain syndrome, cluster headache, or neuritis. The technique used for CT guided ablation using alcohol or radiofrequency is described. The advantages and pitfalls of this technique are reviewed.