The surgeon explains how the procedure that promises to end migraine pain is performed and clarifies the main doubts
Do you suffer from constant episodes of headaches? Surgery can be an alternative to treating the condition. This is because the procedure, created by cosmetic surgery for the frontal or upper region of the face, has shown improvement in pain in patients with a history of migraines.
“In 2005, a prospective study with randomization between a treated and a control group without surgery was published, involving a total of 125 patients. Of the treated group, 92% of patients were successful with surgery. In addition, , 35% had complete elimination of migraines, “explains Dr. Paolo Rubez, UNIFESP graduate plastic surgeon, member of the US Society of Migraine Surgery.
Conservative treatments, such as medications, have not been shown to be effective in recovering from resistant migraine, which, among other things, is associated with poor quality of life. “Migraine surgery is defined as decompression of the peripheral nerves (a ‘deactivation’ at trigger sites). This is a relatively new, but highly science-backed treatment strategy for resistant and refractory migraines,” adds the doctor.
The specialist explains the main myths and truths about the procedure. Watch:
“No scientific evidence”
Myth. This is because the migraine surgery available in Brazil is one of the most effective ways to reduce the intensity, frequency and duration of attacks, according to a recent systematic review published in February in Annals Of Surgery. “68 studies were analyzed that confirmed the results and safety of the procedure, with a very low complication rate and a high degree of patient satisfaction,” explains plastic surgeon Dr. Paolo Rubez.
“Migraine surgery is financially impractical”
Myth. “A recent study in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery shows that surgery is cheaper. Plus, from a year on, the costs of drugs far outweigh those of the procedure. Surgery is performed once, while drugs last for the rest of your life, “he says.
“Surgery reduces drug use”
Truth. A Harvard Medical School study showed that migraine surgery, in addition to improving headache symptoms as shown in several studies, is also associated with a significant reduction in drug use, especially in the case of patients suffering from of chronic and debilitating pain, says Dr. Paul.
“Migraine surgery is minimally invasive”
Truth. According to the doctor, the surgery lasts from 15 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the number of nerves treated, and acts on the operative decompression of the peripheral nerves of the face, head and neck to relieve migraine symptoms. “The surgery is minimally invasive and aims to decompress and release the branches of the trigeminal and occipital nerves involved in the painful points,” he explains.
“Most patients require surgery on more than one nerve and usually anesthesia is general. Therefore, a hospital stay of up to 1 day is required. However, in a minority of cases, the surgery may be performed under anesthesia and discharged immediately after the procedure, “says the doctor.
“Can only be done on adults”
Myth. “The scientific studies have covered the treatment of adolescents and adults, both with a positive and similar response, being then indicated from adolescence onwards. There are no studies on children,” says the doctor.
Migraine surgery can be performed on any patient diagnosed with migraine by a neurologist who has two or more severe pain attacks per month that cannot be controlled by medication. Patients who suffer from drug side effects or who have intolerance to them can also undergo the procedure. In addition, people with impaired quality of life can be contemplated, Dr. Paul.
+The best content in your email for free. Choose your favorite Earth Newsletter. Click here!
Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
