PSR can relieve trigeminal neuralgia by destroying the part of the nerve that causes pain and by suppressing the pain signal to the brain. Although facial numbness results, PSR is one of the most effective procedures because it provides lasting pain relief with few risks of serious side effects. PSR can be effective in patients of all ages including those with multiple sclerosis and some types of tumors. Patients are admitted to the outpatient clinic several hours before the procedure. Step 1 Preparing the patient Several points are marked with a pen on the patient's cheek, which is then washed with an antiseptic.
Sterile drapes cover the neck and chest.
A shot of atropine is given to help dry the mouth. Step 2 Inserting the electrode into the nerve As short-acting anesthesia is given intravenously in the arm, a slight burning is felt as you fall asleep. The surgeon guides the electrode intoducer through the cheek. The correct placement of the introducer is verified by x-ray called fluoroscopy. The surgeon guides the electrode introducer through the cheek and into an opening at the base of the skull called the foramen ovale.