Neurosurgical interventions for the treatment of classical trigeminal neuralgia
Abstract Background Surgical interventions are used for trigeminal neuralgia when drug treatment fails. Surgical treatments divide into two main categories, ablative (destructive) or non-ablative. These treatments can be done at three different sites: peripherally, at the Gasserian ganglion level, and within the posterior fossa of the skull. Objectives To assess the efficacy of neurosurgical interventions for […]
Betahistine for Ménière’s disease or syndrome
Abstract Background This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in The Cochrane Library in Issue 1, 2001 and previously updated in 2008. Ménière’s disease is characterised by attacks of hearing loss, tinnitus and disabling vertigo. Betahistine (Serc®, Betaserc®) is used by many people to reduce the frequency and severity of these attacks […]
Acupuncture for Bell’s palsy
Abstract Background Bell’s palsy or idiopathic facial palsy is an acute facial paralysis due to inflammation of the facial nerve. A number of studies published in China have suggested acupuncture is beneficial for facial palsy. Objectives The objective of this review was to examine the efficacy of acupuncture in hastening recovery and reducing long-term morbidity […]
Antiviral therapy for Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus with facial palsy) in adults
Abstract Background Herpes zoster oticus (HZO) is a viral infection of the ear and when associated with acute facial paralysis is known as Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Antiviral agents are the standard first-line treatment for herpes zoster infections at other body sites and are thought to reduce or minimise nerve damage, thereby improving outcomes. It has […]
Corticosteroids as adjuvant to antiviral treatment in Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus with facial palsy) in adults
Abstract Background Inflammation and oedema of the facial nerve due to viral infection by the herpes zoster virus are implicated in the aetiology and clinical manifestation of Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus with facial palsy). Corticosteroids, with their powerful anti-inflammatory effect, have a potential role to play in the reduction or minimisation of nerve […]