Lidocaine infusion for the treatment of intractable trigeminal neuralgia: retrospective case series and systematic review. [Review]
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All Authors
Mohamed, MW.
Irem-Oko, F.
Sheikh, A.
Phillips, N.
Mckinlay, J.
Anderson, I.
LTHT Author
Mohamed, Mohamed Wael
Irem-Oko, Francis
Sheikh, Asim
Phillips, Nick
McKinlay, Justin
Anderson, Ian
Irem-Oko, Francis
Sheikh, Asim
Phillips, Nick
McKinlay, Justin
Anderson, Ian
LTHT Department
Neurosciences
Neurosurgery
Trauma & Related Services
Orthopaedics
Theatres & Anaesthetics
Anaesthetics
Neurosurgery
Trauma & Related Services
Orthopaedics
Theatres & Anaesthetics
Anaesthetics
Non Medic
Publication Date
2025
Item Type
Journal Article
Systematic Review
Review
Systematic Review
Review
Language
Subject
Subject Headings
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Trigeminal neuralgia classically manifests with intense facial pain. When the condition is unresponsive to standard treatment, it is referred to as refractory trigeminal neuralgia.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to investigate the effectiveness, duration of pain relief and safety profile of intravenous Lidocaine in managing this debilitating condition.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective case series in a UK tertiary neurosurgery centre studied twenty trigeminal neuralgia patients who underwent Lidocaine infusion from January 2016 to December 2022. A systematic review of the literature was also undertaken.
RESULTS: After the first intravenous Lidocaine injection, 16 patients (80%) achieved an efficacy score of III, i.e. they reported pain that had become adequately controlled with their medications. In addition, one patient achieved a BNI score of II and three patients (15%) did not respond to treatment. In addition, nine patients (45%) reported reduced pain intensity for more than six months, six patients (30%) for less than three months, and five patients (25%) for three to six months. There were no treatment-related significant adverse events.
CONCLUSION: Lidocaine infusion therapy for refractory worsening trigeminal neuralgia is safe and improved pain control when combined with ongoing medical therapy.
Journal
Acta Neurochirurgica