Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the meta-box domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /var/www/vhosts/drmustafakilic.com.tr/httpdocs/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114
Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation - Doç. Dr. Mustafa Kılıç | Beyin, Sinir ve Omurilik Cerrahı
Assoc. Dr. Mustafa Kılıç, Brain, Nerve and Spine Surgeon Specialist
Call now
Nişantaşı/İstanbul

Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation

Home Surgeries Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation
trigeminal-sinir-stimulasyonu

Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation

Trigeminal nerve stimulation involves a type of non-invasive medical treatment that uses a small electrical device placed on the forehead. It is approved for the prevention or relief of trigeminal neuralgia-type headaches. The treatment is used at home and follows a set schedule.

What is the Trigeminal Nerve?

Trigeminal nerves are a pair of 12 pairs of cranial nerves. This nerve transmits sensory input from the face to the brain. It has three main branches, so it is called the trigeminal nerve. The branches are called V1, V2, and V3.

Injury to this nerve can cause changes in facial sensation. Pain is the most common result of injuries or inflammation of the trigeminal nerve.

Trigeminal neuralgia is a painful condition that corresponds to one or more of the trigeminal nerve branches, causing severe pain in the face, usually on one side. This condition is associated with injury, irritation, or inflammation affecting the trigeminal nerve.

Migraine and other types of headaches have also been associated with trigeminal nerve irritation, but the exact relationship has not been fully established. It is also being researched to treat major depressive disorder.

What Is Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation Used For?

The idea behind trigeminal nerve stimulation is that changing the action of this nerve can alleviate certain conditions.

It is a device approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for adults 18 years and older to treat and prevent trigeminal neuralgia and migraine-type headaches. It works by externally stimulating the trigeminal nerve with electrical signals transmitted through the skin. Experimental research shows that it can also affect metabolic activity in pain-processing areas of the brain, thereby reducing pain.

There are other trigeminal nerve treatments that are not considered direct stimulation and these interventions are used for a variety of conditions. For example;

  • Trigeminal nerve stimulation is being studied as a possible therapy for the treatment of certain types of epilepsy (a condition in which there are electrical disturbances in the brain).
  • Acupuncture is a treatment in which a needle-based therapy is applied near the trigeminal nerve. It has been used to treat certain forms of tinnitus (tinnitus).
  • Injection of anti-inflammatory or pain medication near the trigeminal nerve is used to relieve symptoms caused by irritation or inflammation of the trigeminal nerve.
  • Surgery is sometimes recommended for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia. Procedures include ligating (cutting) part of the trigeminal nerve to reduce sensitivity or surgery to reduce trigeminal nerve compression.
How Do You Use Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation?

Devices approved for trigeminal nerve stimulation therapy are placed on the forehead for a specified period of time.

How Does Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation Work?

Research shows that trigeminal nerve stimulation sends electrical impulses to the trigeminal nerve to alter the transmission of pain to the brain. Experimental research also shows that this may affect metabolic activity in areas of the brain that process pain, which in turn may affect the experience of pain.

Is it safe?

Trigeminal nerve stimulation is considered safe with approved devices and for approved uses. However, the treatment may cause some side effects. Most study participants and users of the devices did not have to stop using the devices because of side effects. The most common side effects are somnolence and paresthesia (unusual sensations).

Measures

Because of the potential for drowsiness, caution should be exercised when using trigeminal nerve stimulation with activities such as driving, using potentially hazardous equipment, and swimming.