Comparing two methods for treating facial pain from trigeminal neuralgia

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) and a combination of Pulsed and Thermal Radiofrequency (PRF + TRF) in treating adults with Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN). Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either PRF or PRF + TRF treatment targeting the trigeminal nerve. The study will assess pain relief, functional status, and any adverse events over a 12-week follow-up period. The primary outcome will focus on pain reduction measured through established pain scales, while secondary outcomes will evaluate medication consumption and safety profiles.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults aged 18-60 years.
* Diagnosis of classical trigeminal neuralgia, as per the International Classification of Headache Disorders criteria
* Patients experiencing unilateral, episodic facial pain for at least six months with a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score greater than 6, despite medical treatment.
* Able to provide informed consent.
* Agree to follow the study procedures and attend follow-up visits.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with secondary trigeminal neuralgia (e.g., due to tumors, multiple sclerosis).
* Previous surgery or radiofrequency treatment for trigeminal neuralgia.
* Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
* Known allergies to anesthetics or other agents used in the procedure.
* Significant psychiatric disorders that may interfere with pain assessment or study participation.
* Coagulopathy or use of anticoagulants that contraindicate the procedure.

Where it's running

• Zagazig University, Faculty of Medicine
  Zagazig, Sharqia Province, Egypt Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Ahmed A Bessar, MD, PhD — Assistant Professor of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Zagazig Uni.
• Study coordinator: Ahmed A Bessar, MD, PhD
• Email: Ahmedawadbessar@gmail.com
• Phone: +201000089595

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Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Evaluating Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for Postherpetic Neuralgia

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.