Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Kailash KothariMD Anesthesiology, Pain Medicine, FIAPM (Pain Medicine) · 30+ years experience
- No surgery required for many conditions
- Same-day procedures
- International training & advanced techniques
What is Gasserian Ganglion RF ablation ?
The Gasserian Ganglion can be partially ablated as it sits in Meckles Cave either by using Glycerol or by making a radiofrequency lesion.
A small thin needle is inserted into the middle of the cheek under local anaesthesia, and gently guided with X-ray assistance through the foramen ovale into Meckles Cave where the Gasserian Ganglion sits.
It is important to treat the correct branch of the trigeminal nerve involved in the pain, to avoid excessive numbness post-procedure. With latest RF generators we can stimulate to confirm the branch which is to be ablated. This improves the effectiveness of the therapy
For patients where surgery and anaesthesia is too risky, Injection Techniques may offer pain relief.
Procedure Images
Who is Gasserian Ganglion RF ablation for?
- Patients where surgery and anaesthesia is too risky
- Trigeminal nerve pain requiring branch-specific treatment
How Gasserian Ganglion RF ablation is performed
- Small thin needle inserted into middle of cheek under local anaesthesia
- Needle guided with X-ray through foramen ovale into Meckel’s Cave
- RF stimulation confirms branch to be ablated
Before, during & after the procedure
Before: Correct trigeminal nerve branch involvement is identified.
During: Needle is guided under X-ray assistance into Meckel’s Cave where the Gasserian Ganglion sits.
After & recovery: Care is taken to avoid excessive numbness post-procedure.
Benefits of Gasserian Ganglion RF ablation
- May offer pain relief when surgery/anaesthesia is too risky
- Latest RF generators improve effectiveness by confirming branch to be ablated
Conditions treated with this procedure
Medical references
This page is informed by guidance from the following authoritative medical sources: