Glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GN) is described as sharp, jabbing, electric, or shock like pain located deep in the throat on one side. It is generally located near the tonsil although the pain may extend deep into the ear. It is usually triggered by swallowing or chewing. There is usually no abnormality noted on the physical exam although such pain can be cause by throat cancers. For this reason and MRI is usually obtained to ensure that there is no evidence for a tumor or other lesion. When these causes are eliminate it is often found that a small blood vessel compressing the nerves as they exit the brainstem is the underlying etiology.

Like trigeminal neuralgia, GN can be treated with medication such as Tegretol, Dilantin, Baclofen, or Neurontin. Many patients, however, require increasing doses which can lead to unacceptable side-effects.

Results

We believe MVD for GN is the most effective treatment for this disorder. Despite the rarity of GN, we have operated upon over 200 patients with throat pain over 80% of whom enjoy immediate excellent relief.

(A) Vein at brainstem entry site of cranial nerve
nine and ten decompressed using Teflon felt.