EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF RADIOFREQUENCY THERMOCOAGULATION ON THALAMIC CONNECTIVITY IN ATHLETES WITH TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA: A CONTROLLED STUDY

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the impact of radiofrequency thermocoagulation on bilateral thalamic functional connectivity in athletes with primary trigeminal neuralgia, assessing the neurological and pain management outcomes post-treatment. Methods: Between August 2018 and August 2020, 74 athletes diagnosed with primary trigeminal neuralgia were enrolled and randomly assigned into two groups: a control group receiving conventional percutaneous puncture combined with radiofrequency thermocoagulation, and an observation group undergoing only radiofrequency thermocoagulation. Assessments included surgical metrics, pain levels using the Pain Rating Index (PRI) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS-fMRI) for thalamic connectivity, clinical efficacy, adverse reactions, and recurrence rates. Results: Surgical outcomes were significantly improved in the observation group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Post-treatment, the observation group exhibited markedly lower PRI and VAS scores at both one week and one month (P<0.05). Thalamic functional connectivity in the observation group was significantly enhanced compared to the control group (P<0.05). Clinical efficacy in the observation group reached 97.30%, significantly surpassing the 83.78% in the control group (P<0.05). Additionally, adverse reaction and recurrence rates in the observation group were significantly lower, at 5.41% and 1.35% respectively, compared to 21.62% and 16.22% in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Radiofrequency thermocoagulation offers significant benefits for athletes with primary trigeminal neuralgia by effectively reducing pain, enhancing thalamic connectivity, and improving overall clinical outcomes. The procedure not only alleviates symptoms but also minimizes nerve tissue damage and recurrence rates, supporting faster recovery and return to athletic activities. This treatment is highly recommended for its efficacy and minimal adverse effects, proving its value in sports medicine.