Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition characterised by severe, shock like facial pain. It is often triggered by touch, chewing or talking. The severity of pain often waxes and wanes and it is typically well controlled (at least initially) by medication such as carbamazepine (Tegretol).

Trigeminal neuralgia is usually caused by an artery compressing the origin of the 5th (Trigeminal) cranial nerve as it exits the brain. If the pain is not controlled by medication, there are a number of surgical options which can be very effective. They range from simple balloon compression of the nerve through to micro surgically moving the offending artery. The most appropriate operation depends on a number of factors including age and other past medical history.