Pulsed Mode Radiofrequency Lesioning to Treat Chronic Post-tonsillectomy Pain (secondary Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia)

Glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN) is an uncommon orofacial pain syndrome. Primary GPN is idiopathic, whereas secondary GPN has identifiable causes: tonsillectomy, peritonsillar abscesses, invasive cancer, and trauma. Despite these differences, both types of GPN present similarly and can recur. Pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning is a safe, non-destructive treatment method and hence, useful in neuropathic pain conditions. We present the first case of chronic post-tonsillectomy pain (secondary glossopharyngeal neuralgia), that was successfully managed with pulsed radiofrequency lesioning.