Dr. Steven Giannotta

Appointments
(323) 442-6290

New Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Percutaneous Balloon Compression

A radiograph of the “pear shaped’ balloon in position
during the Compression Procedure.

The department of Neurological Surgery of the USC Keck School of Medicine announces the availability of percutaneous balloon compression of the trigeminal nerve as an alternative to patients with trigeminal neuralgia.  This relatively simple procedure is done under a light anesthetic and the patient goes home within 3 hours.  One of its major benefits is that it can be scheduled rapidly, allowing for quick relief if the patient is currently in an acute exacerbation period.  Everything is done in the Xray department.  From the time the sedative is given, the technique can be completed within 20 minutes.

 
This technique will complement our other Trigeminal Neuralgia services including Microvascular Decompression and Gamma Knife Radiosurgery.  Over 90% of patients will note immediate relief.  About half will experience some amount of numbness.  Relief may last for several years, but if necessary can always be repeated.

For more information, please feel free to call USC Department of Neurosurgery at (323) 442-6290.