Learn about Cranial Neuralgia Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Cranial Neuralgia and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Cranial Neuralgia

Cranial neuralgia is a specialized diagnostic and therapeutic procedure performed by a neurologist to address severe, sharp, and often debilitating facial pain originating from the cranial nerves. This condition, most famously exemplified by trigeminal neuralgia, involves paroxysmal, electric shock-like pain along the distribution of nerves like the trigeminal, glossopharyngeal, or occipital nerves. The neurologist's role involves a comprehensive evaluation using advanced imaging (like MRI) to rule out underlying causes, followed by precise nerve blocks or medication management. For refractory cases, more advanced interventional procedures such as radiofrequency ablation, microvascular decompression surgery, or gamma knife radiosurgery may be coordinated. The goal is to accurately diagnose the specific nerve involved and implement a targeted strategy to disrupt pain signals, providing significant relief and improving the patient's quality of life.

Key Highlights

    Provides targeted relief from severe, lancinating facial pain.Offers both diagnostic clarification and therapeutic intervention.Utilizes precise, minimally invasive techniques like nerve blocks.Can significantly improve daily function and quality of life.Treatment plans are highly individualized based on the specific nerve involved.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Diagnosis and treatment of classic or atypical trigeminal neuralgia (tic douloureux).
  • Severe, episodic pain in the distribution of the glossopharyngeal or occipital nerves.
  • Facial pain unresponsive to standard analgesic medications.
  • To perform a diagnostic nerve block to confirm the pain source.
  • As a step before considering more invasive neurosurgical procedures.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive neurological examination and detailed pain history.
  • High-resolution MRI of the brain and cranial nerves to rule out tumors or vascular compression.
  • Review and potential adjustment of current medications (e.g., anticoagulants).
  • Fasting for several hours if a procedural intervention (like a nerve block) is planned.
  • Discussion of the procedure's goals, steps, and potential risks with the neurologist.

Risks & possible complications

  • Temporary numbness, weakness, or a burning sensation in the treated area.
  • Infection or bleeding at the injection site for nerve blocks.
  • Rare risk of damage to adjacent structures or blood vessels.
  • Potential for pain recurrence, requiring repeat procedures.
  • Complications specific to surgical options (e.g., cerebrospinal fluid leak, hearing loss with microvascular decompression).

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Immediate rest after a nerve block procedure; someone should drive the patient home.
  • Mild soreness at the injection site can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Gradual return to normal activities as tolerated, often within 24-48 hours for non-surgical interventions.
  • Close monitoring of pain levels and any new neurological symptoms.
  • Follow-up appointments with the neurologist to assess efficacy and plan further management if needed.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-2 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1 day to 4 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering cranial neuralgia in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for cranial neuralgia compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 54 – USD 2,719 0-2 days ~ 1 day to 4 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 403 – USD 20,131 0-2 days ~ 1 day to 4 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Cranial Neuralgia in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing cranial neuralgia.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Had my gallbladder out last week....

Had my gallbladder out last week. The surgery itself was fine, but the first two days after were rough. Dr. Madhumitha was really on top of my pain meds, adjusting them a few times until it was manageable. She checked on me every morning and evening at MGM, which helped a lot. I'm home now and the recovery is going okay, just taking it slow.