Deep Brain Stimulation for Refractory Trigeminal Neuralgia with a Pontine Lesion

Launched by UNIVERSITÉ DE SHERBROOKE · Jul 5, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new treatment option for people suffering from severe facial pain caused by trigeminal neuralgia, particularly for those whose condition does not improve with standard medications or surgeries. The researchers want to see if a technique called deep brain stimulation, which involves placing a small device in the brain, can help control this pain. This method specifically targets areas in the brain that are connected to the pain signals caused by a type of brain lesion, often related to multiple sclerosis.

To participate in this trial, you must be at least 18 years old and have experienced trigeminal neuralgia that has not responded to at least three different medications and two surgical treatments. Additionally, an MRI must show that your condition is linked to a specific brain lesion. If you join the trial, you will receive the deep brain stimulation treatment and be monitored to see how well it helps with your pain. This trial is currently looking for participants and aims to offer new hope for those still struggling with this challenging condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults of at least 18 years old
• • Refractory trigeminal neuralgia : failure of at least 3 drugs and at least two lesioning surgical interventions (radiosurgery, percutaneous rhizotomy, or open rhizotomy).
• • Pontine lesion proved by MRI in contact with trigeminal nerve tract
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Absolute contraindication to MRI
• • Medical contraindication to the procedure