Intractable hemifacial spasm treated by pulsed radiofrequency treatment.

Abstract

Hemifacial spasm is defined as unilateral, involuntary, irregular twitching of all or parts of the muscles innervated by facial nerves. Here, we present a case of recurrent hemifacial spasm after microvascular decompression (MVD) treated with pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment with good results. A 35-year-old woman suffered from recurrent hemifacial spasm after MVD that was refractory to medical treatment and botulinum toxin injections. We attempted a left facial nerve block twice. Then, we applied PRF at a maximum temperature of 42℃ for 120 sec. Some response was observed, so we applied PRF two additional times. The frequency of twitch decreased from 3-4 Hz to < 0.5 Hz, and subjective severity on a visual analogue scale also decreased from 10/10 to 2-3/10. PRF treatment might be an effective medical treatment for refractory hemifacial spasm and has fewer complications and is less invasive compared with those of surgery.

• Authors: Hae Lang Park, Seung Mo Lim, Tae Hwa Kim, Kyung Ho Kang, Hyun Kang, Yong Hun Jung, Chong Wha Baek, Young Cheol Woo, Jin Yun Kim, Gill Hoi Koo, Hwa Yong Shin
• Journal: The Korean journal of pain (Korean J Pain) Vol. 26 Issue 1 Pg. 62-4 (Jan 2013) ISSN: 2005-9159 [Print] Korea (South)
• PMID: 23342210 (Publication Type: Case Reports)