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Current Pain and Headache Reports
Published in: Current Pain and Headache Reports 5/2013

01-05-2013 | Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias (M Matharu, Section Editor)

Role of Trigeminal Microvascular Decompression in the Treatment of SUNCT and SUNA

Authors: Swapna Sebastian, Daniel Schweitzer, Leong Tan, Simon A. Broadley

Published in: Current Pain and Headache Reports | Issue 5/2013

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Abstract

Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms (SUNA) are primary headache disorders. Evidence suggests that SUNCT/SUNA have similar pathophysiology to the trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias and involves the trigeminal autonomic reflex. This review provides an overview of microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve and other surgical therapeutic options for SUNCT/SUNA. We have undertaken a mini-meta-analysis of available case reports and case series with the aim of providing recommendations for the use of such therapies in SUNCT/SUNA. There is some evidence supporting microvascular decompression of the trigeminal nerve in selected patients who have medically refractory SUNCT/SUNA and a demonstrable ipsilateral aberrant vessel on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We also consider what further investigations could be undertaken to assess the role of surgical interventions in the treatment of these often debilitating conditions.
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Metadata
Title
Role of Trigeminal Microvascular Decompression in the Treatment of SUNCT and SUNA
Authors
Swapna Sebastian
Daniel Schweitzer
Leong Tan
Simon A. Broadley
Publication date
01-05-2013
Publisher
Current Science Inc.
Published in
Current Pain and Headache Reports / Issue 5/2013
Print ISSN: 1531-3433
Electronic ISSN: 1534-3081
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-013-0332-0

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