Trigeminal neuralgia is the most commonly occurring facial pain that severely affects the quality of life of those who suffer from it. Ordinary gestures such as talking, chewing, and even smiling can become a daily challenge.
At Instituto Clavel, we offer innovative and effective treatments for relieving trigeminal nerve pain. Among them, the Mullan technique stands out for being one of the most effective means of addressing trigeminal neuralgia without the need for incision or opening the skull.
What is the Mullan technique?
The Mullan technique is a percutaneous procedure performed without opening the skull. Instead, a needle is inserted through the face to the origin of the trigeminal nerve, and controlled injury is made to the nerve fibers responsible for the pain signal.
Primary benefits of the Mullan technique
- Rapid relief of facial pain, even in drug-resistant cases
- Minimally invasive procedure, with quick recovery
- Reduces the need for pain medication
- High rate of success and low rate of pain recurrence
The Mullan technique is ideal for patients looking for an effective and safe solution to trigeminal neuralgia.
How is the Mullan technique performed?
It can be performed with the patient under general anesthesia or under sedation. Nowadays, we highly recommend intraoperative neuronavigation for greater precision. The procedure lasts about 30-45 minutes. The patient can be discharged in less than 24 hours after the procedure.
Who is a candidate for the Mullan technique?
This technique is primarily indicated for trigeminal neuralgia when the patient:
- Has pain resistant to conventional pain-relief medication
- Suffers significant side effects from the use of pain relievers or anticonvulsants
- Desires a minimally invasive treatment with a high rate of success
At Instituto Clavel, we make a personalized assessment for each patient to ensure that treatment is suitable for their specific needs.
Other benefits of the Mullan technique
- Rapid recovery -- patient can resume normal activities within 24–48 hours
- Long-lasting results, with minimal likelihood of pain recurrence
- Lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery (open surgery or Jannetta's technique)
Frequently asked questions about the Mullan technique
Is the procedure painful?
No. The Mullan technique is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia or sedation, so it is practically painless. There is no scarring and no stitches are required, so there is no post-operative discomfort.
How long does it take to recover?
Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days.
Is it effective for all cases of trigeminal neuralgia?
Yes, especially in patients who do not respond to medications. Each case is evaluated individually to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Improve your quality of life with the Mullan technique
The Mullan technique is a highly effective, cost-efficient tool for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia, offering patients safe, swift, and long-lasting relief. At Instituto Clavel, we combine experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and a personalized approach to improve the quality of life of our patients.
If you suffer from severe facial pain or trigeminal neuralgia, don't wait any longer. Schedule an appointment with our specialists at Instituto Clavel to find out how the Mullan technique can help you regain your well-being and peace of mind. Contact us today!
Dr. Gloria Villalba
Neurosurgeon specialising in pain management
Categories: Brain treatments, Techniques, Pain Management