TL;DR Quick answer
Nerve block or radiofrequency treatment for trigeminal neuralgia and facial pain. It is commonly used for trigeminal neuralgia. The procedure takes about 20–45 minutes and is day care. Suitability is decided after a specialist assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About Trigeminal Nerve Block
For selected people with trigeminal neuralgia or other facial pain, local anaesthetic can be placed around branches of the trigeminal nerve. In some cases, radiofrequency treatment of the nerve is considered for longer relief.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 20–45 minutes |
| Anaesthesia | Local, sometimes sedation |
| Guidance | X-ray or ultrasound |
| Hospital stay | Day care, home the same day |
| Commonly used for | Trigeminal Neuralgia |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Benefits
- No surgical incision
- Day-care procedure: home the same day
- Precise, image-guided placement
- Can be combined with rehabilitation
Before the procedure
Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, an infection, or could be pregnant. You will receive specific instructions, including whether to fast and whether someone should take you home.
During the procedure
Under image guidance, a fine needle is placed near the targeted nerve branch and the medicine is injected or radiofrequency treatment applied.
After the procedure
You rest for a short time before going home, usually the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two is common. Follow-up checks how much the procedure helped.
Risks and safety
Facial numbness, which may be temporary or, after radiofrequency treatment, longer lasting. The doctor will discuss specific risks. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks for you before you consent.
Myths and facts
Myth Injections near the spine or nerves are very painful.
Fact The skin is numbed first. Most people feel pressure and brief discomfort.
Myth One injection fixes the problem for good.
Fact The effect varies. Some people need a repeat procedure, and most benefit from exercise and follow-up as well.
| Condition | What it is | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Trigeminal Neuralgia | Sudden, severe, electric-shock facial pain triggered by touch, eating or speaking. | Brief, shock-like pain in the cheek, jaw, teeth or forehead; attacks triggered by touch, chewing, brushing teeth or wind |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.