Five-year outcome of surgical treatment of migraine headaches

Surgical treatment delay in patients with headache disorders and neuralgia correlates with poor postoperative outcome

INTRODUCTION

Although nerve decompression surgery has proven to be effective in reducing symptoms in patients with head and neck neuralgia and headache disorders, it is currently not part of the treatment algorithms for headache disorders. Therefore, patients wait an average of 20 years from the onset of symptoms to surgery, resulting in high conservative treatment costs ($989,275.65 per patient) and patient morbidity. This study evaluated the clinical impact of treatment delays on surgical outcomes.

METHODS

Overall, 282 patients who underwent nerve decompression surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital between September 2012 and January 2024 were enrolled. Information regarding demographics, onset of symptoms, and headache characteristics was collected using patient surveys. The treatment outcome was evaluated by the percentage of symptom reduction in terms of frequency, duration, and pain intensity. An area under the receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine the optimal timepoint to undergo surgery.

RESULTS

Postoperative symptom reduction and time between the onset of symptoms and surgery were negatively correlated (r = -0.22; p < 0.001). The most significant difference in outcome was found at 2.9 years from symptom onset; patients who underwent surgery before this timepoint reported an average improvement of 79 ± 23% versus 67 ± 35% in those who were treated after the timepoint (p = 0.021).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that delays in undergoing nerve decompression surgery beyond 2.9 years from symptom onset leads to less favorable postoperative outcomes, underscoring the need for timely referral to peripheral nerve surgeons when conservative management fails. Nonetheless, even with delays in surgical intervention, patients continued to experience significant symptom reduction.

Preoperative visualization of the greater occipital nerve with magnetic resonance imaging in candidates for occipital nerve decompression for headaches

Occipital nerve decompression is effective in reducing headache symptoms in select patients with migraine and occipital neuralgia. Eligibility for surgery relies on subjective symptoms and responses to nerve blocks and Onabotulinum toxin A (Botox) injections. No validated objective method exists for detecting occipital headache pathologies. The purpose of the study is to explore the potential of high-resolution Magnetic Resolution Imaging (MRI) in identifying greater occipital nerve (GON) pathologies in chronic headache patients. The MRI protocol included three sequences targeting fat-suppressed fluid-sensitive T2-weighted signals. Visualization of the GON involved generating 2-D image slices with sequential rotation to track the nerve course. Twelve patients underwent pre-surgical MRI assessment. MRI identified four main pathologies that were validated against intra-operative examination: GON entanglement by the occipital artery, increased nerve thickness and hyperintensity suggesting inflammation compared to the non-symptomatic contralateral side, early GON branching with rejoining at a distal point, and a connection between the GON and the lesser occipital nerve. MRI possesses the ability to visualize the GON and identify suspected trigger points associated with headache symptoms. This case series highlights MRI's potential to provide objective evidence of nerve pathology. Further research is warranted to establish MRI as a gold standard for diagnosing extracranial contributors in headaches.

Surgical Management of Headache Disorders - A Systematic Review of the Literature

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review article critically evaluates the latest advances in the surgical treatment of headache disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of innovative screening tools, such as doppler ultrasound, pain drawings, magnetic resonance neurography, and nerve blocks to help identify candidates for surgery. Machine learning has emerged as a powerful tool to predict surgical outcomes. In addition, advances in surgical techniques, including minimally invasive incisions, fat injections, and novel strategies to treat injured nerves (neuromas) have demonstrated promising results. Lastly, improved patient-reported outcome measures are evolving to provide a framework for comparison of conservative and invasive treatment outcomes. Despite these developments, challenges persist, particularly related to appropriate patient selection, insurance coverage, delays in diagnosis and surgical treatment, and the absence of standardized measures to assess and compare treatment impact. Collaboration between medical/procedural and surgical specialties is required to overcome these obstacles.

Comparing Migraine Headache Index versus Monthly Migraine Days after Headache Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Nerve deactivation surgery for the treatment of migraine has evolved rapidly over the past 2 decades. Studies typically report changes in migraine frequency (attacks/month), attack duration, attack intensity, and their composite score-the Migraine Headache Index-as primary outcomes. However, the neurology literature predominantly reports migraine prophylaxis outcomes as change in monthly migraine days (MMD). The goal of this study was to foster common communication between plastic surgeons and neurologists by assessing the effect of nerve deactivation surgery on MMD and motivating future studies to include MMD in their reported outcomes.

METHODS

An updated literature search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The National Library of Medicine (PubMed), Scopus, and Embase were systematically searched for relevant articles. Data were extracted and analyzed from studies that met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 19 studies were included. There was a significant overall reduction in MMDs [mean difference (MD), 14.11; 95% CI, 10.95 to 17.27; I 2 = 92%], total migraine attacks per month (MD, 8.65; 95% CI, 7.84 to 9.46; I 2 = 90%), Migraine Headache Index (MD, 76.59; 95% CI, 60.85 to 92.32; I 2 = 98%), migraine attack intensity (MD, 3.84; 95% CI, 3.35 to 4.33; I 2 = 98%), and migraine attack duration (MD, 11.80; 95% CI, 6.44 to 17.16; I 2 = 99%) at follow-up (range, 6 to 38 months).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the efficacy of nerve deactivation surgery on the outcomes used in both the plastic and reconstructive surgery and neurology literature.

A rare variation of the infraorbital nerve, entrapping the infraorbital artery

Anatomical variations are a common feature of the human anatomy. Variation can explain some pathological conditions and is important to keep them in mind during surgical procedures. The relations between nerves and their adjacent arteries have been proposed to play a role in the generation of peripheral trigger migraines. Close opposition between nerves and arteries can lead to vascular compression of the nerve that triggers episodes of pain. We did a routine dissection of the infratemporal fossa and orbital floor by opening the maxillary sinus. Here we report a case where the infraorbital nerves form a nervous loop entrapping the infraorbital artery in the infraorbital channel. Similar cases of close nervous and arterial apposition are described for the auriculotemporal and occipital nerves. We think that accumulating knowledge of these rare variations could expand our understanding of rare conditions such as primary infraorbital neuralgia.

Treatment delay from onset of occipital neuralgia symptoms to treatment with nerve decompression surgery: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate the time between onset of occipital neuralgia symptoms and nerve decompression surgery, (2) perform a cost comparison analysis between surgical and nonsurgical treatment of occipital neuralgia, and (3) report postoperative results of nerve decompression for occipital neuralgia.

METHODS

Subjects (n = 1112) who underwent screening for nerve decompression surgery were evaluated for occipital neuralgia. Of those, 367 patients (33%) met the inclusion criteria. Timing of occipital neuralgia symptom onset and pain characteristics were prospectively collected. Cost associated with the nonsurgical treatment of occipital neuralgia was calculated for the period between onset of symptoms and surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 226 patients (73%) underwent occipital nerve decompression. The average time between onset of occipital neuralgia and surgery was 19 years (7.1-32). Postoperatively, the median number of pain days per month decreased by 17 (0-26, 57%) (P < .001), the median pain intensity decreased by 4 (2-8, 44%) (P < .001), and median pain duration in hours was reduced by 12 (2-23, 50%) (P < .001). The annual mean cost of nonsurgical occipital neuralgia treatment was $28 728.82 ($16 419.42-$41 198.41) per patient. The mean cost during the 19-year time frame before surgery was $545 847.75($311 968.90-$782 769.82).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that patients suffer from occipital neuralgia for an average of 19 years before undergoing surgery. Nerve decompression reduces symptom severity significantly and should be considered earlier in the treatment course of occipital neuralgia that is refractory to conservative treatment to prevent patient morbidity and decrease direct and indirect health care costs.

Comprehensive Criteria for Differential Diagnosis and a Surgical Management Algorithm for Occipital Neuralgia and Migraine Headaches

The differential diagnoses and nuances of the surgical management of occipital migraine and occipital neuralgia have not been clearly discussed in the available literature. This study aims to highlight additional diagnostic features and offers an algorithm for the surgical treatment of occipital migraine and occipital neuralgia based on the vast experience of the senior author spanning over 23 years. A retrospective cohort study was conducted to review the number and distribution of patients who underwent surgical treatment for occipital migraine headaches and neuralgia and the signs and symptoms observed. Among the 660 patients who underwent surgical treatment for headaches within the territory of the greater occipital nerves, 86 patients underwent isolated deactivation of the greater occipital site (site IV) or combined greater and lesser occipital sites (site IV and site VI surgical). Within the isolated occipital headache group, 43 patients met the criteria for migraine headaches and 43 for occipital neuralgia. Our additional observation on the differences between the occipital neuralgia and migraine groups included that occipital neuralgia is more commonly unilateral, less commonly familial, and more commonly associated with a whiplash-type injury. In addition, the patient with occipital neuralgia can consistently identify the distinct point of pain using the index finger. An ultrasound Doppler signal can also be detected at the pain site and a pulse is often palpable in the site identified by the patient. Occipital neuralgia is also commonly continuous and unrelenting, with occasional spikes of shooting pain, and is less likely to respond to botulinum toxin-A injection. Patients with occipital neuralgia often have a single-site headache while patients with migraine headaches often suffer from headaches in multiple sites. Additional clinical criteria are offered for the differential diagnosis of occipital migraine headaches and occipital neuralgia based on the vast experience of the senior author and the developed surgical management algorithm.

Assessing the Relationship between Obesity and Trigger Point-specific Outcomes after Headache Surgery

Background

Trigger point deactivation surgery is a safe and effective treatment for properly selected patients experiencing migraine, with 68.3%-100% experiencing symptom improvement postoperatively. However, it is still unknown why certain patients do not respond. Obesity has been shown to be associated with worsened migraine symptoms and a decreased response to select pharmacotherapies. This study aimed to determine whether obesity may also be associated with an attenuated response to surgery.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify patients who had undergone trigger point deactivation surgery for migraine. Patients were split into obese and nonobese cohorts. Obesity was classified as a body mass index of 30 or higher per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Outcomes and follow-up periods were determined with respect to individual operations. Outcomes included migraine attack frequency, intensity, duration, and the migraine headache index. Differences in demographics, operative characteristics, and operative outcomes were compared.

Results

A total of 62 patients were included in the study. The obese cohort comprised 31 patients who underwent 45 total operations, and the nonobese cohort comprised 31 patients who underwent 34 operations. Results from multivariable analysis showed no impact of obesity on the odds of achieving a more than 90% reduction in any individual outcome. The overall rates of improvement (≥50% reduction in any outcome) and elimination (100% reduction in all symptoms) across both cohorts were 89.9% and 65.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

Obese patients have outcomes comparable to a nonobese cohort after trigger point deactivation surgery for migraine.

Pearls for Starting a Headache Surgery Practice in Academic and Private Practice

There has been a growing body of evidence indicative of the effectiveness of headache surgery in treating patients with refractory headache disorders. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons issued a Policy Statement in 2018 stating that peripheral nerve decompression surgery for the treatment of refractory chronic headache disorders in select patients is considered a standard of care treatment. This endorsement sparked the interest of numerous plastic surgeons into initiating their own headache surgery practices. However, establishing a headache surgery clinic introduces challenges and considerations. This report outlines the key pillars for launching a successful headache surgery practice in academic and private practice environments.

Secondary Trigger Point Deactivation Surgery for Nerve Compression Headaches: A Scoping Review

Background

Primary trigger point deactivation surgery has been successful in reducing or eliminating nerve compression headaches between 79% and 90% of the time. The aim of this review article was to discuss the factors that contribute to index trigger point deactivation surgery failure, the importance of reevaluating trigger points following failure, and the options for secondary surgery.

Methods

A literature search was performed using a combination of keywords involving "chronic headache" and "nerve deactivation surgery," in databases until February 2023.

Results

Data of 1071 patients were evaluated and included (11 articles). The failure rate after index trigger point deactivation surgery occurs is approximately 12%, primarily due to incomplete primary trigger point deactivation. Secondary trigger points may not appear until the primary trigger is eliminated, which occurs in 17.8% of patients. Reevaluation of previously diagnosed trigger points as well as uncovered trigger points and additional preoperative testing is indicated to help determine candidacy for further surgical deactivation. To address scarring that could contribute to failure, corticosteroid injection, acellular dermal matrix, adipofascial fat, or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene sleeves have been described with beneficial effects. For neuroma management, regenerative peripheral nerve interface, targeted muscle reinnervation, a combination of both, relocation nerve grafting, or nerve capping have also been described. Neurectomy can be performed when patients prefer anesthesia and/or paresthesia over current pain symptoms.

Conclusion

Secondary trigger point deactivation surgery is indicated when there is suspicion of incomplete deactivation, internal scarring, neuroma, or newly-diagnosed trigger points.

The Efficacy of Trigger Site Surgery in the Elimination of Chronic Migraine Headache: An Update in the Rate of Success and Failure

Migraine headache (MH) is a prevalent neurovascular disorder that affects approximately 15% of the global population. They are more common in women and typically affect young and middle-aged individuals. Chronic MH is characterized by headaches occurring on ≥15 days per month for over three months. While only 5% of MHs are refractory, about 20%-50% do not respond to pharmacologic treatments. As a result, surgical interventions have emerged as an alternative method to eliminate MH since 2000 AD. These surgical treatments primarily target the peripheral mechanisms of MH, focusing on common trigger sites. Migraine surgery involves neurolysis of sensory branches of trigeminal and occipital nerves that supply the face and back of the head. Numerous clinical studies conducted between 2000 and 2021 have extensively described surgical interventions and their prognostic outcomes. After surgery, up to 80% of patients reported complete elimination of headaches, while 20%-35% experienced no relief. The failure to achieve complete elimination of MH can be attributed to various factors. The most common reason for a partial clinical response is the failure to identify all trigger sites or inadequate surgery on the trigger sites. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of current surgical interventions for MH at different trigger sites, including recent updates, success and failure rates, and potential causes of failure.

Functional outcomes between headache surgery and targeted botox injections: A prospective multicenter pilot study

Introduction

Chronic migraine headaches (MH) are a principal cause of disability worldwide. This study evaluated and compared functional outcomes after peripheral trigger point deactivation surgery or botulinum neurotoxin A (BTA) treatment in patients with MH.

Methods

A long-term, multicenter, and prospective study was performed. Patients with chronic migraine were recruited at the Ohio State University and Massachusetts General Hospital and included in each treatment group according to their preference (BTA or surgery). Assessment tools including the Migraine Headache Index (MHI), Migraine Disability Assessment Questionnaire (MIDAS) total, MIDAS A, MIDAS B, Migraine Work and Productivity Loss Questionnaire-question 7 (MWPLQ7), and Migraine-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQ) version 2.1 were used to evaluate functional outcomes. Patients were evaluated prior to treatment and at 1, 2, and 2.5 years after treatment.

Results

A total of 44 patients were included in the study (surgery=33, BTA=11). Patients treated surgically showed statistically significant improvement in headache intensity as measured on MIDAS B (p = 0.0464) and reduced disability as measured on MWPLQ7 (p = 0.0120) compared to those treated with BTA injection. No statistical difference between groups was found for the remaining functional outcomes. Mean scores significantly improved over time independently of treatment for MHI, MIDAS total, MIDAS A, MIDAS B, and MWPLQ 7 (p<0.05). However, no difference in mean scores over time was observed for MSQ.

Conclusions

Headache surgery and targeted BTA injections are both effective means of addressing peripheral trigger sites causing headache pain. However, lower pain intensity and work-related disabilities were found in the surgical group.

Treatment Delay in Patients Undergoing Headache Surgery (Nerve Decompression Surgery)

Background

Although headache surgery has been shown to be an effective treatment option for refractory headache disorders, it has not been included as part of the headache disorder management algorithm by non-surgical providers. This study aims to evaluate the delay in surgical management of patients with headache disorders. In addition, a cost comparison analysis between conservative and operative treatment of headache disorders was performed, and the surgical outcomes of headache surgery were reported.

Methods

Among 1112 patients who were screened, 271 (56%) patients underwent headache surgery. Data regarding the onset of headache disorder and pre- and postoperative pain characteristics were prospectively collected. To perform a cost comparison analysis, direct and indirect costs associated with the conservative treatment of headache disorders were calculated.

Results

The median duration between onset of headache disorder symptoms and headache surgery was 20 (8.2-32) years. The annual mean cost of conservative treatment of headache disorders was $49,463.78 ($30,933.87-$66,553.70) per patient. Over the 20-year time period before surgery, the mean cost was $989,275.65 ($618,677.31-$1,331,073.99). In comparison, the mean cost of headache surgery was $11,000. The median pain days per month decreased by 16 (0-25) (p<0.001), the median pain intensity reduced by 4 (2-7) (p<0.001), and the median pain duration decreased by 11 hours (0-22) (p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study shows that patients experience symptoms of headache disorders for an average of 20 years prior to undergoing headache surgery. Surgical treatment not only significantly improves headache pain but also reduces healthcare costs and should be implemented in the management algorithm of headache disorders.

Anatomic Anomalies of the Nerves Treated during Headache Surgery

Background

Headache surgery is a well-established, viable option for patients with chronic head pain/migraines refractory to conventional treatment modalities. These operations involve any number of seven primary nerves. In the occipital region, the surgical targets are the greater, lesser, and third occipital nerves. In the temporal region, they are the auriculotemporal and zygomaticotemporal nerves. In the forehead, the supraorbital and supratrochlear are targeted. The typical anatomic courses of these nerves are well established and documented in clinical and cadaveric studies. However, variations of this "typical" anatomy are quite common and relatively poorly understood. Headache surgeons should be aware of these common anomalies, as they may alter treatment in several meaningful ways.

Methods

In this article, we describe the experience of five established headache surgeons encompassing over 4000 cases with respect to the most common anomalies of the nerves typically addressed during headache surgery. Descriptions of anomalous nerve courses and suggestions for management are offered.

Results

Anomalies of all seven nerves addressed during headache operations occur with a frequency ranging from 2% to 50%, depending on anomaly type and nerve location. Variations of the temporal and occipital nerves are most common, whereas anomalies of the frontal nerves are relatively less common. Management includes broader dissection and/or transection of accessory injured nerves combined with strategies to reduce neuroma formation such as targeted reinnervation or regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces.

Conclusions

Understanding these myriad nerve anomalies is essential to any headache surgeon. Implications are relevant to preoperative planning, intraoperative dissection, and postoperative management.

Nonpharmacologic Treatments for Chronic and Episodic Migraine: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive techniques for treatment-resistant migraine have been developed on recent insights into the peripheral pathogenesis of migraines. Although there is a growing body of evidence supporting these techniques, no study has yet compared the effects of these treatments on headache frequency, severity, duration, and cost.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify randomized placebo-controlled trials that compared radiofrequency ablation, botulinum toxin type A (BT-A), nerve block, neurostimulation, or migraine surgery to placebo for preventive treatment. Data on changes from baseline to follow-up in headache frequency, severity, duration, and quality of life were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 30 randomized controlled trials and 2680 patients were included. Compared with placebo, there was a significant decrease in headache frequency in patients with nerve block ( P = 0.04) and surgery ( P < 0.001). Headache severity decreased in all treatments. Duration of headaches was significantly reduced in the BT-A ( P < 0.001) and surgery cohorts ( P = 0.01). Quality of life improved significantly in patients with BT-A, nerve stimulator, and migraine surgery. Migraine surgery had the longest lasting effects (11.5 months) compared with nerve ablation (6 months), BT-A (3.2 months), and nerve block (11.9 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Migraine surgery is a cost-effective, long-term treatment to reduce headache frequency, severity, and duration without significant risk of complication. BT-A reduces headache severity and duration, but it is short-lasting and associated with greater adverse events and lifetime cost. Although efficacious, radiofrequency ablation and implanted nerve stimulators have high risks of adverse events and explantation, whereas benefits of nerve blocks are short in duration.

Patient-reported outcomes: A primer for plastic surgeons

Surgical care today is no longer evaluated only on clinical outcomes but also on holistic patient wellbeing. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are a representation of the patient's perspective on their results and wellbeing. The aim of this review is to establish PROs as the center of healthcare and plastic surgery, to delineate important PROs in plastic surgery practice and research, to discuss the future of PROs within our discipline, and to encourage surgeons to incorporate PROs into their practice. PROs are an important parallel of clinical outcomes in that they can use the patient's perspective to 1) support clinical findings, 2) detect differences in care when there are no clear clinical differences, 3) track progress longitudinally, and 4) support systemic improvements in healthcare. Plastic surgery as a field is naturally aligned with PROs because, as a discipline, we focus on patient form and function. The emerging forefronts of plastic surgery such as lymphedema care, gender-affirming care, peripheral nerve surgery, migraine surgery, and breast implant illness are critically dependent on PROs. In the next decade, we predict that there will be a continued proliferation of robust PRO measures and integration into healthcare delivery. Outcomes research in surgery should continue to evolve as surgeons provide increasingly more benefits to improve patient wellbeing. Plastic surgeons must continue to play a prominent role in the future of PROs.

Long-term results of migraine surgery and the relationship between anatomical variations and pain

BACKGROUND

Migraine headache surgery has been recently reported and supported by studies as management to provide long-term relief in migraine sufferers. This study aimed to monitor the long-term results of patients who underwent migraine surgery in our clinic and determine the relationship between pain and anatomical anomalies.

METHODS

A prospective review was conducted of 93 patients who underwent surgery for migraine headaches performed between 2017 and 2021 by the senior author (M.U.) and had at least 12 months of follow-up. Anatomical data were obtained by recording the findings during surgery. Migraine surgery was performed bilaterally in all patients. Anatomical symmetry differences between the right and left sides were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 79 (84.9%) patients experienced at least 50% reduction in migraine headache. Furthermore, 13 (14%) patients reported complete elimination of migraine headache. A significant difference was found before and after surgery in Migraine Disability Assessment score, migraine headache index, frequency, duration, and pain (p < 0.001). Also, 30 (32.3%) of the patients had bilateral headaches and 63 (67.7%) had primarily unilateral headaches. Then, 51 (81%) patients with mostly unilateral headache were anatomically asymmetrical and 12 (12%) were anatomically symmetrical. Patients with mostly unilateral headache were found to be anatomically highly asymmetrical (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that surgical treatment is effective and long-term protection and has mild complications that are easily tolerated by the patient. The fact that headache side and anatomical asymmetry were significant in this study supports the peripheral mechanism.

Outcomes of Surgical Treatment of Migraines: A Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis

Background: Migraine surgery at 1 of 6 identified "trigger sites" of a target cranial sensory nerve has rapidly grown in popularity since 2000. This study summarizes the effect of migraine surgery on headache severity, headache frequency, and the migraine headache index score which is derived by multiplying migraine severity, frequency, and duration. Materials and Methods: This is a PRISMA-compliant systematic review of 5 databases searched from inception through May 2020 and is registered under the PROSPERO ID: CRD42020197085. Clinical trials treating headaches with surgery were included. Risk of bias was assessed in randomized controlled trials. Meta-analyses were performed on outcomes using a random effects model to determine the pooled mean change from baseline and when possible, to compare treatment to control. Results: 18 studies met criteria including 6 randomized controlled trials, 1 controlled clinical trial, and 11 uncontrolled clinical trials treated 1143 patients with pathologies including migraine, occipital migraine, frontal migraine, occipital nerve triggered headache, frontal headache, occipital neuralgia, and cervicogenic headache. Migraine surgery reduced headache frequency at 1 year postoperative by 13.0 days per month as compared to baseline (I2 = 0%), reduced headache severity at 8 weeks to 5 years postoperative by 4.16 points on a 0 to 10 scale as compared to baseline (I2 = 53%), and reduced migraine headache index at 1 to 5 years postoperative by 83.1 points as compared to baseline (I2 = 2%). These meta-analyses are limited by a small number of studies that could be analyzed, including studies with high risk of bias. Conclusion: Migraine surgery provided a clinically and statistically significant reduction in headache frequency, severity, and migraine headache index scores. Additional studies, including randomized controlled trials with low risk-of-bias should be performed to improve the precision of the outcome improvements.

Nerve blocks for occipital headaches: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Migraine surgeons have identified six "trigger sites" where cranial nerve compression may trigger a migraine. This study investigates the change in headache severity and frequency following nerve block of the occipital trigger site. This PRISMA-compliant systematic review of five databases searched from database inception through May 2020 is registered under the PROSPERO ID: CRD42020199369. Only randomized controlled trials utilizing injection treatments for headaches with pain or tenderness in the occipital scalp were included. Pain severity was scored from 0 to 10. Headache frequency was reported as days per week. Included were 12 RCTs treating 586 patients of mean ages ranging from 33.7 to 55.8 years. Meta-analyses of pain severity comparing nerve blocks to baseline showed statistically significant reductions of 2.88 points at 5 to 20 min, 3.74 points at 1 to 6 weeks, and 1.07 points at 12 to 24 weeks. Meta-analyses of pain severity of nerve blocks compared with treatment groups of neurolysis, pulsed radiofrequency, and botulinum toxin type A showed similar headache pain severity at 1 to 2 weeks, and inferior improvements compared with the treatment groups after 2 weeks. Meta-analyses of headache frequency showed statistically significant reductions at 1 to 6-week follow-ups as compared with baseline and at 1 to 6 weeks as compared with inactive control injections. The severity and frequency of occipital headaches are reduced following occipital nerve blocks. This improvement is used to predict the success of migraine surgery. Future research should investigate spinous process injections with longer follow-up.

New anatomical insights of the superficial branch of the zygomaticotemporal nerve for treating temporal migraines: An anatomical study

The zygomaticotemporal nerve is known to contribute to temporal migraines; however, its precise anatomy remains unknown. The potential accessory branches of the zygomaticotemporal nerve may be considered a cause of continued temporal migraines after surgical procedures. In this study, we defined the novel superficial branch of the zygomaticotemporal nerve (sZTN) and investigated its anatomical course, distribution, and clinical implications. Twenty-two hemifaces from 11 fixed Korean cadavers (six males, five females; mean age, 78.3 years) were used in this study. The piercing points of the sZTN through the deep and superficial layers of the deep temporal fascia, and the superficial temporal fascia were defined as P1, P2, and P3, respectively. The distance of each point from the zygomatic tubercle was measured using an image analysis software. The sZTN ascended between the bone and the temporalis after emerging from the zygomaticotemporal foramen. It then pierced the deep temporal fascia without penetrating the temporalis. After then, it pierced the superficial layer of the deep temporal fascia and turned superiorly toward the upper posterior temple. When the sZTN passed through the superficial temporal fascia, it intersected with the superficial temporal artery in every case. The novel findings of the sZTN may help in the treatment of intractable temporal migraines refractory to injection or surgical procedure. Based on our findings, targeting the sZTN may be applied as an alternative treatment strategy for patients who do not show significant improvement with treatment targeted to trigger sites.

Measuring Success in Headache Surgery: A Comparison of Different Outcomes Measures

BACKGROUND

Studies of migraine surgery have relied on quantitative, patient-reported measures like the Migraine Headache Index (MHI) and validated surveys to study the outcomes and impact of headache surgery. It is unclear whether a single metric or a combination of outcomes assessments is best suited to do so.

METHODS

All patients who underwent headache surgery had an MHI calculated and completed the Headache Impact Test, the Migraine Disability Assessment Test, the Migraine-Specific Quality-of-Life Questionnaire, and an institutional ad hoc survey preoperatively and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients (79%) experienced greater than or equal to 50% MHI reduction. MHI decreased significantly from a median of 210 preoperatively to 12.5 postoperatively (85%; P < 0.0001). Headache Impact Test scores improved from 67 to 61 (14%; P < 0.0001). Migraine Disability Assessment Test scores improved from 57 to 20 (67%; P = 0.0022). The Migraine-Specific Quality-of-Life Questionnaire demonstrated improvement in quality-of-life scores within all three of its domains ( P < 0.0001). The authors' ad hoc survey demonstrated that participants "strongly agreed" that (1) surgery helped their symptoms, (2) they would choose surgery again, and (3) they would recommend headache surgery to others.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of how one measures it, headache surgery is effective. The authors demonstrate that surgery significantly improves patients' quality of life and decreases the effect of headaches on patients' functioning, but headaches can still be present to a substantial degree. The extent of improvement in migraine burden and quality of life in these patients may exceed the amount of improvement demonstrated by current measures.

Minimally Invasive Nerve- and Muscle-Sparing Surgical Decompression for Occipital Neuralgia

BACKGROUND

Occipital neuralgia is a well-defined type of headache, and its treatment algorithm is still debated across medical specialties. From the analysis of the literature, it appears that surgical decompression of the occipital nerves is the most effective invasive approach to improve the quality of life of patients with occipital neuralgia refractory to medications. The authors describe here a minimally invasive nerve- and muscle-sparing technique to decompress the occipital nerves.

METHODS

The results in terms of reduction of migraine days per month, use of medications, pain evaluation, and decrease in Migraine Headache Index were analyzed by means of a retrospective chart review of 87 patients who underwent nerve- and muscle-sparing surgical decompression of the greater and lesser monolateral or bilateral occipital nerves in their institution and were followed up for at least 12 months. The surgical technique is described in detail.

RESULTS

Surgical decompression significantly reduced occipital neuralgia burden (at least 50% improvement) in 91% of patients, with 45% reporting a complete remission of occipital pain. Days with pain per month decreased by 80%, chronic background pain intensity decreased by 81%, and pain intensity during crisis decreased by 76%. Accordingly, drug use dropped by approximately 70%. Only minor complications were reported in four patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The described technique could contribute to and further support surgical decompression as the first option among the invasive approaches to treat occipital neuralgia. Results corroborate previous findings, adding a less-invasive, nerve- and muscle-sparing approach.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Migraine Surgery and Determination of Success over Time by Trigger Site: A Systematic Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Migraine headache is a debilitating disorder that produces high costs and compromises patient quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate surgery success and the longevity of the surgical benefit by trigger site.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed by querying the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The keywords "surgery," "migraine," "outcomes," "headache index," and synonyms in titles and abstracts were used to perform the search.

RESULTS

A total of 17 articles published between 2009 and 2019 met the inclusion criteria. Six studies were prospective and 11 were retrospective. Most of the studies (77.8%, 77.8%, and 80%, respectively) reported success of migraine surgery at 12-month follow-up for trigger sites I, II, and III, respectively. For trigger site IV, the greatest Migraine Headache Index reduction (93.4%) was observed at 12-month follow-up, and the earliest Migraine Headache Index reductions (80.3% and 74.6%) were observed at 6-month follow-up. All studies that evaluated trigger sites V and VI identified surgery success at 12-month follow-up. Migraine surgery was found to remain beneficial at 22 months for trigger sites I, II, III, and IV.

CONCLUSIONS

The symptomatic improvement may initially be evident at 6 months for trigger site IV and at 12 months for trigger sites I, II, III, V, and VI. Surgical benefit in trigger sites I, II, III, and IV can persist after 22 months. Further studies are required to evaluate results at longer follow-up.

Nonsurgical Treatment of Neuralgia and Cervicogenic Headache: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:

Extracranial compression of peripheral sensory nerves is one of many origins of chronic headaches. Identifying these patients can be difficult, and they are often diagnosed with neuralgia or cervicogenic headache. The recent literature provides the outcomes of surgical decompression in patients with these headaches. This study aimed to give an overview of the current literature on the nonsurgical treatment options and to evaluate the effectiveness of these treatments in patients with neuralgia and cervicogenic headache.

Methods:

Databases were searched to identify all published clinical studies investigating nonsurgical treatment outcomes in patients with neuralgia or cervicogenic headaches. Studies that reported numerical pain scores, nonnumerical pain scores, headache-free days, or the number of adverse events after nonsurgical treatment were included.

Results:

A total of 22 articles were included in qualitative analysis. The majority of studies included patients who received injection therapy. Treatment with oral analgesics achieved good results in only 2.5% of the patients. Better outcomes were reported in patients who received local anesthetics injection (79%) and corticosteroid injection (87%). Treatment with botulinum toxin injection yielded the highest percentage of good results (97%; 95% CI, 0.81–1.00). The duration of headache relief after injection therapy varied from 30 minutes to 5 months.

Conclusions:

The nonsurgical treatment of patients with neuralgia or cervicogenic headache is challenging. Injection therapy in patients with these types of headaches achieved good pain relief but only for a limited time. Surgical decompression may result in long-lasting pain relief and might be a more sustainable treatment option.

Current Evidence in Migraine Surgery: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Migraine headache is a widespread neurovascular disorder with an enormous social and economic impact. A subgroup of patients cannot be managed with pharmacological therapy. Although surgical decompression of extracranial sensory nerves has been proposed as a valid alternative treatment option, the medical community remains reluctant to accept it.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. An electronic search was performed in September 2020 on PubMed, ScienceDirect, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar databases for original articles reporting outcomes on migraine surgery.

RESULTS

The search strategy revealed a total of 922 studies, of which 52 were included in the review. Significant improvement was reported in 58.3% to 100% and complete elimination in 8.3% to 86.8% of patients across studies. No major complications were reported.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review demonstrates that migraine surgery is an effective and safe procedure, with a positive impact in patients' quality of life and a reduction in long-term costs.

CONCLUSION

There is considerable scientific evidence suggesting extracranial migraine surgery is an effective and safe procedure. This surgery should be considered in properly selected migraineurs refractory to medical treatment.

The Greater Occipital Nerve and Its Dynamic Compression Points: Implications in Migraine Surgery

BACKGROUND

The greater occipital nerve is a common compression site for migraine or chronic headache, and variable relationships with the occipital artery have been shown in anatomical studies. Despite surgical decompression, there are still a subset of patients who have an incomplete response. In this article, the authors describe an observed clear and very consistent pattern between the nerve and artery, including both dynamic and static compression points, that must be evaluated for adequate treatment.

METHODS

Seventy-one patients underwent occipital nerve decompression with high-definition videos and photographs, and the dynamic relationship between the greater occipital nerve and the occipital artery was recorded in a retrospective review.

RESULTS

A consistent pattern existed in 92 percent of patients, as follows: (1) hidden proximal dynamic compression of the bottom surface of the nerve as the occipital artery comes laterally to dive under the greater occipital nerve; (2) more apparent dynamic compression on the upper surface of the nerve as the occipital artery loops back on top of the greater occipital nerve; (3) intertwining compression after the bifurcation of the greater occipital nerve as the artery wraps around the medial branch; and (4) parallel travel of the terminal branch of the greater occipital nerve with the occipital artery in close proximity.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a consistent pattern in the relationship between the greater occipital nerve and the occipital artery after its exit from the trapezius fascia. It is possible that this relationship creates dynamic compression points, including hidden areas, that can only be deactivated by radical excision of the vessel.

A Markov Analysis of Surgical versus Medical Management of Chronic Migraines

BACKGROUND

Refractory chronic migraine is a common and debilitating neurologic condition, affecting over 8 million people in the United States. It is associated with billions of dollars in lost productivity annually. Novel medical (anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide antibodies) and surgical treatment modalities have emerged for chronic migraine in recent years. The current study investigated the cost-utility of surgical versus medical management of refractory chronic migraine.

METHODS

A Markov cohort analysis using hybrid Monte Carlo patient simulation was performed to compare surgical decompression versus erenumab for the treatment of refractory chronic migraine in adults. Both societal and payer perspectives were considered. Primary model outcomes included incremental cost-effectiveness ratio, or cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained.

RESULTS

Over a 5-year period, migraine surgery was associated with an increase of 0.2 quality-adjusted life-year per patient when compared to erenumab. In terms of costs, the results demonstrated a $19,337 decrease in direct medical costs and a $491 decrease in indirect costs (productivity lost) for the surgery cohort compared to erenumab. Because surgery improved quality of life and decreased costs compared to erenumab, even when considering revision surgery needs, surgery was the overall dominant treatment in terms of cost-effectiveness. Sensitivity analyses demonstrated that surgery was cost-effective compared to erenumab when patients required therapy for at least 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical deactivation of migraine trigger sites may pose a cost-effective approach to treating refractory chronic migraine in adults. This is especially the case when patients are anticipated to require therapy for more than 1 year.

Efficacy and Safety of Migraine Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Outcomes and Complication Rates

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study are to assess the efficacy and safety of peripheral nerve surgery for migraine headaches and to bibliometrically analyze all anatomical studies relevant to migraine surgery.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Migraines rank as the second leading cause of disability worldwide. Despite the availability of conservative management options, individuals suffer from refractive migraines which are associated with poor quality of life. Migraine surgery, defined as the peripheral nerve decompression/trigger site deactivation, is a relatively novel treatment strategy for refractory migraines.

METHODS

EMBASE and the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) were systematically searched for relevant articles according to the PRISMA guidelines. Data was extracted from studies which met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses were performed to assess complication rates. Meta-analyses were run using the random effects model for overall effects and within subgroup fixed-effect models were used.

RESULTS

A total of 68 studies (38 clinical, 30 anatomical) were included in this review. There was a significant overall reduction in migraine intensity (P < 0.001, SE = 0.22, I2 = 97.9), frequency (P < 0.001, SE = 0.17, I2 = 97.7), duration (P < 0.001, SE = 0.15, I2 = 97), and migraine headache index (MHI, P < 0.001, SE = 0.19, I2 = 97.2) at follow-up. A total of 35 studies reported on migraine improvement (range: 68.3%-100% of participants) and migraine elimination (range: 8.3%-86.5% of participants). 32.1% of participants in the clinical studies reported complications for which the most commonly reported complications being paresthesia and numbness, which was mostly transient, (12.11%) and itching (4.89%).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates improved migraine outcomes and an overall decrease in MHI as well as strong evidence for the safety profile and complication rate of migraine surgery.

Clinical Effectiveness of Peripheral Nerve Blocks for Diagnosis of Migraine Trigger Points

BACKGROUND

With a 13 percent global prevalence, migraine headaches are the most commonly diagnosed neurologic disorder, and are a top five cause of visits to the emergency room. Surgical techniques, such as decompression and/or ablation of neurovasculature, have shown to provide relief. Popular diagnostic modalities to identify trigger loci include handheld Doppler examinations and botulinum toxin injection. This article aims to establish the positive predictive value of peripheral nerve blocks for identifying therapeutic surgical targets for migraine headache surgery.

METHODS

Electronic medical records of 36 patients were analyzed retrospectively. Patients underwent peripheral nerve blocks using 1% lidocaine with epinephrine and subsequent surgery on identified migraine headache trigger sites. Patients were grouped into successful and unsuccessful blocks and further categorized into successful and unsuccessful surgery subgroups. Group analysis was performed using paired t tests, and positive-predictive value calculations were performed on subgroups.

RESULTS

The preoperative Migraine Headache Index of patients with positive blocks was 152.71, versus 34.26 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Each index component also decreased significantly: frequency (22.11 versus 15.06 migraine headaches per month; p < 0.001), intensity (7.43 versus 4.12; p < 0.001), and duration (0.93 versus 0.55 days; p < 0.001). The positive-predictive value of diagnostic peripheral nerve blocks in identifying a migraine headache trigger site responsive to surgical intervention was calculated to be 0.89 (95 percent CI, 1 to 0.74).

CONCLUSIONS

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the positive-predictive value of peripheral nerve blocks as used in the diagnostic workup of patients with chronic migraine headaches. Peripheral nerve blocks serve as a reliable clinical tool in mapping migraine trigger sites for surgical intervention while offering more flexibility in their administration and recording as compared to established diagnostic methods. .

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic, IV.

A Correlation between Upper Extremity Compressive Neuropathy and Nerve Compression Headache

BACKGROUND

Compressive neuropathies of the head/neck that trigger headaches and entrapment neuropathies of the extremities have traditionally been perceived as separate clinical entities. Given significant overlap in clinical presentation, treatment, and anatomical abnormality, the authors aimed to elucidate the relationship between nerve compression headaches and carpal tunnel syndrome, and other upper extremity compression neuropathies.

METHODS

One hundred thirty-seven patients with nerve compression headaches who underwent surgical nerve deactivation were included. A retrospective chart review was conducted and the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, and cubital tunnel syndrome was recorded. Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, and thoracic outlet syndrome who had a history of surgery and/or positive imaging findings in addition to confirmed diagnosis were included. Patients with subjective report of carpal tunnel syndrome/thoracic outlet syndrome/cubital tunnel syndrome were excluded. Prevalence was compared to general population data.

RESULTS

The cumulative prevalence of upper extremity neuropathies in patients undergoing surgery for nerve compression headaches was 16.7 percent. The prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome was 10.2 percent, which is 1.8- to 3.8-fold more common than in the general population. Thoracic outlet syndrome prevalence was 3.6 percent, with no available general population data for comparison. Cubital tunnel syndrome prevalence was comparable between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of overlap between nerve compression syndromes of the head/neck and upper extremity suggests that peripheral nerve surgeons should be aware of this correlation and screen affected patients comprehensively. Similar patient presentation, treatment, and anatomical basis of nerve compression make either amenable to treatment by nerve surgeons, and treatment of both entities should be an integral part of a formal peripheral nerve surgery curriculum.

Clinical Outcome of Nerve Decompression Surgery for Migraine Improves with Nerve Wrap

Background:

Chronic migraine headaches affect nearly 30 million Americans every year and are responsible for roughly 1.2 million emergency department visits annually. Many of the standard therapies commonly used to treat migraines are often unsuccessful and may furthermore introduce unwanted side effects. The purpose of this study was to identify independent predictors of clinical improvement in patients undergoing surgical nerve decompression for migraine.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review between 2010 and 2020 was conducted. The primary endpoint was clinical improvement at 1-year follow-up, defined as an independence from prescription medications. Patients were stratified into two groups: clinical improvement and treatment failure. Backward multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the associations between migraine improvement and different patient characteristics.

Results:

A total of 153 patients were included. In total, 129 (84.3%) patients improved and 24 (15.7%) did not. Significant associations with clinical improvement at multivariable logistic regression were found with acellular dermal matrix nerve wrap (OR = 10.80, 95%CI: 6.18–16.27), and operation of trigger sites four (OR = 37.96, 95%CI: 2.16–73.10) and five (OR = 159, 95%CI: 10–299).

Conclusion:

The use of acellular dermal matrix nerve wraps in surgery was significantly associated with clinical migraine improvement, as was operation at trigger sites four and five.

Qualitative Analysis of Single-Site Headache Surgery: Is It Different From Multiple-Site Surgery?

BACKGROUND

Migraine surgery has been shown to be efficacious, but nuanced effects of surgery on pain and individuals' lives remain incompletely understood. Surgery may be performed at a single or multiple "primary" sites. The aims of this study were to investigate patient perceptions following single-site surgery and compare themes in patients undergoing single-site surgery with those from a previously published conceptual framework generated with patients undergoing multisite surgery.

METHODS

Patients who underwent single-site headache surgery participated in open-ended interviews at least 1 year after surgery. Participants (n = 14) had undergone either occipital, temporal, or nasoseptal site surgery. A multidisciplinary team analyzed transcripts. Recurring themes were identified and compared and contrasted to those observed in patients who underwent multiple-site surgery (n = 15) in a previous study (Plast Reconstr Surg 2019;144(4):956-964).

RESULTS

Similar recurring themes emerged from the single-site cohort, and the conceptual framework was applicable to all participants. Two new themes emerged from the single-site analysis. First, 5 of 14 participants described being "migraine-free" postoperatively, a finding not observed in the multisite group. Second, several individuals described financial benefits after surgery, via decreased prescription medication requirements, raises at work, and improved productivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-site headache surgery appears to positively impact patients' lives in ways that support and expand upon previously published outcomes. Patients undergoing surgery at a single site may be more likely to experience a "pain-free" state, which may relate to the underlying pathophysiology of chronic headache. The effect of surgery on finances appears to be an outcome of interest to patients, which should be explored further.

Comparison of Peripheral Neurectomy vs. Medical Treatment for Migraine: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Migraine is a common form of primary neurologic headache. Many patients are chronic migraineurs and suffer from a significant disability and adverse effects of drugs. There are various surgical options available to treat migraines, including peripheral neurectomies.

Objective

To study the surgical and functional outcomes of migraine surgeries using peripheral neurectomies and compare them with conservatively treated patients.

Materials and Methods

Migraine patients who had a unilateral onset pain were given local bupivacaine block at the suspected trigger site, and those who were relieved were given the option for surgery. In the operative group, the peripheral nerve of the trigger site was lysed under local anesthesia. The conservative group was continued with the standard treatment. Evaluations with a baseline and 6 months visual analog score (VAS), migraine headache index (MHI), migraine disability assessment test (MIDAS), and pain self-efficacy questionnaire (PSEQ) scores were done.

Results

A total of 26 patients got benefitted with the local bupivacaine block, out of which 13 underwent surgery. At baseline, the VAS, MHI, MIDAS, and PSEQ scores were similar in both the groups. The operative group had significant (P < 0.001) improvement in all these parameters 6 months after the surgery. All patients of the operative group got free from prophylactic migraine treatment; however, 11 out of 13 patients still needed occasional  use of analgesics. There was one complication of transient temporal numbness.

Conclusion

Migraine surgery using peripheral neurectomies was more effective than chronic drug treatment in appropriately selected patients.

Trigger-Site Deactivation Surgery for Nerve Compression Headaches

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Identify patients who are candidates for headache surgery. 2. Counsel the patient preoperatively with regard to success rates, recovery, and complications. 3. Develop a surgical plan for primary and secondary nerve decompression. 4. Understand the surgical anatomy at all trigger sites. 5. Select appropriate International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, and CPT codes.

SUMMARY

Headache surgery encompasses release of extracranial peripheral sensory nerves at seven sites. Keys to successful surgery include correct patient selection, detailed patient counseling, and meticulous surgical technique. This article is a practical step-by-step guide, from preoperative assessment to surgery and postoperative recovery. International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, and CPT codes, in addition to complications and salvage procedures, are discussed. Intraoperative photographs, videos, and screening questionnaires are provided.

The Evolution of Migraine Surgery: Two Decades of Continual Research. My Current Thoughts

SUMMARY

A mere serendipitous finding has culminated in a life-changing development for patients and a colossally fulfilling field for many surgeons. The surgical treatment of migraine headaches has been embraced by many plastic surgeons after numerous investigations ensuring that the risks are minimal and the rewards inestimable. Seldom has a plastic surgery procedure been the subject of such scrutiny. Through retrospective, prospective pilot, prospective randomized, prospective randomized with sham surgery, and 5-year follow-up studies, the safety, efficacy, and longevity of the given operation have been confirmed. Although the first decade of this journey was focused on investigating effectiveness and risk profile, the second decade was largely devoted to improving results, reducing invasiveness, and shortening recovery. Multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals over the past 20 years, several independent studies from reputable surgeons at recognized centers, and over 40 studies from the author's center have established the surgical treatment of headaches as a standard practice.

The Paramedian Forehead Flap: A Retrospective Clinical Model for Understanding the Connection Between Supraorbital and Supratrochlear Nerve Pathology and Headaches

Background:

In the later stages of a paramedian forehead flap (PMFF) surgery, the supratrochlear (STN) and branches of the supraorbital nerve (SON) are transected during flap inset above the supraorbital rim. This can lead to either a nerve release if the compression point was previously distal to the transection point or a new nerve compression through neuroma or scar tissue formation. We inferred that PMFF could be a model for understanding the correlation between STN/SON pathology and migraines headaches (MH). We hypothesized that patients undergoing PMFF would experience either a change in severity or an onset of a new headache (HA) or MH.

Methods:

One hundred ninety-nine patients who underwent a PMFF at a tertiary medical centre were identified and contacted by phone. Patients were asked about the presence of MH or HA before and after the procedure. If a patient reported a perioperative history of MH/HA, their pre- and postoperative MH/HA characteristics were recorded.

Results:

Of the 199 patients contacted, 74 reported no perioperative HA/MH history and 14 reported a perioperative history of HA/MH. Of these 14 patients, 5 had stable HA/MH pre- and post-surgery, and 9 reported a change in HA/MH post-surgery. In this subset of 9 patients, 3 reported change in HA/MH quality post-surgery, 1 reported HA/MH resolution post-surgery, and 5 reported new onset HA/MH post-surgery.

Conclusion:

Sixty-four percent of patients with perioperative HA/MH experienced a change in headache quality following surgery. These results suggest a potential connection between SON and STN pathology and HA/MH pathophysiology; further work is warranted.

Cost-effectiveness of Erenumab Versus Surgical Trigger Site Deactivation for the Treatment of Migraine Headaches: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Migraine headache is a common, debilitating condition responsible for astronomical societal burden. The chronicity of migraine headaches necessitates the use of many healthcare services. Preventative treatment remains the desirable option for this patient population. Pharmacologic advances have led to the development of erenumab, a monoclonal antibody calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist that directly interferes with the known biochemical pathway of migraine initiation. Alternatively, surgical decompression of migraine trigger sites is a historically effective preventative option for certain patients experiencing migraine headaches. As new treatments emerge, the large economic burden of migraine headaches requires cost evaluation against already available preventative modalities.

METHODS

Studies evaluating the cost-effectiveness of both erenumab and surgical trigger site deactivation were found using EMBASE and MedLine. Relevant economic data was extracted from this literature and the cost of treatment with erenumab was compared with surgical decompression.

RESULTS

The market price of erenumab is $6900/yr. Speculative models predicted a direct annual healthcare cost ranging from $11,404 to $12,988 for patients experiencing episodic migraine. For chronic migraine patients, this range extended to $25,604. Annual indirect costs ranged from $7601 to $19,377. Prospective and model-based studies evaluating surgical trigger site deactivation reported an average 1 time surgical cost between $6956 and $10,303. In episodic migraine, subsequent annual healthcare costs were $900.

CONCLUSIONS

Erenumab has potential to be a revolutionary noninvasive preventative treatment for migraine headache. With that said, the cost-conscious option for patients receiving more than 1 year of treatment remains surgical trigger site deactivation.

Endoscopic surgical treatment for rhinogenic contact point headache: systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

This meta-analysis study was designed to analyze endoscopic surgery’s role in treating rhinogenic contact point headache.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive review of the last 20 years’ English language regarding Rhinogenic contact point headache and endoscopic surgery. We included the analysis papers reporting post-operative outcomes through the Visual Analogue Scale or the Migraine Disability Assessment scale.

Results

We provided 18 articles for a total of 978 RCPH patients. While 777 (81.1%) subjects underwent functional nasal surgery for RCPH, 201 patients (20.9%) were medically treated. A significant decrease from the VAS score of 7.3 ± 1.5 to 2.7 ± 1.8 was recorded (p < 0.0001). At quantitative analysis on 660 patients (11 papers), surgical treatment demonstrated significantly better post-operative scores than medical (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

At comparison, surgical treatment in patients with rhinogenic contact points exhibited significantly better values at short-term, medium-term, and long term follow up. Endoscopic surgery should be proposed as the choice method in approaching the symptomatic patient.

Decompression Surgery for Frontal Migraine Headache

INTRODUCTION

Migraine headache (MH) is one of the most common diseases worldwide and pharmaceutical treatment is considered the gold standard. Nevertheless, one-third of patients suffering from migraine headaches are unresponsive to medical management and meet the criteria for "refractory migraines" classification. Surgical treatment of MH might represent a supplementary alternative for this category of patients when pharmaceutical treatment does not allow for satisfactory results. The goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the literature regarding surgical treatment for site I migraine management.

METHODS

A literature search using PubMed, Medline, Cochrane and Google Scholar database according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines was conducted using the following MeSH terms: "frontal neuralgia," "frontal trigger site treatment," "frontal migraine surgery" and "frontal headache surgery" (period: 2000 -2020; last search on 12 March 2020).

RESULTS

Eighteen studies published between 2000 and 2019, with a total of 628 patients, were considered eligible. Between 68% and 93% of patients obtained satisfactory postoperative results. Complete migraine elimination rate ranged from 28.3% to 59%, and significant improvement (>50% reduction) rates varied from 26.5% to 60%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our systematic review of the literature suggests that frontal trigger site nerve decompression could possibly be an effective strategy to treat migraine refractory patients, providing significant improvement of symptoms in a considerable percentage of patients.

A Comprehensive Review of Surgical Treatment of Migraine Surgery Safety and Efficacy

BACKGROUND

Recent clinical experience with migraine surgery has demonstrated both the safety and the efficacy of operative decompression of the peripheral nerves in the face, head, and neck for the alleviation of migraine symptoms. Because of the perceived novelty of these procedures, and the paranoia surrounding a theoretical loss of clinical territory, neurologists have condemned the field of migraine surgery. The Patient Safety Subcommittee of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons ventured to investigate the published safety track record of migraine surgery in the existing body of literature.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the relevant published literature was performed. The relevant databases and literature libraries were reviewed from the date of their inception through early 2018. These articles were reviewed and their findings analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine published articles were found that demonstrated a substantial, extensively replicated body of data that demonstrate a significant reduction in migraine headache symptoms and frequency (even complete elimination of headache pain) following trigger-site surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Migraine surgery is a valid method of treatment for migraine sufferers when performed by experienced plastic surgeons following a methodical protocol. These operations are associated with a high level of safety. The safety and efficacy of migraine surgery should be recognized by plastic surgeons, insurance companies, and the neurology societies.

Site V Surgery for Temporal Migraine Headaches

Background:

Auriculotemporal nerve is demonstrated to contribute to migraine pain in temporal area. In particular, its relationship with the superficial temporal artery in the soft tissues superficial to the temporal parietal fascia has attracted researchers’ attention for many decades. The objective of this review was to explore whether site V nerve surgical decompression is effective for pain relief in temporal area.

Methods:

A literature search, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, was conducted to evaluate the surgical treatment of auriculotemporal migraine. Inclusion was based on studies written in English, published between 2000 and February 2020, containing a diagnosis of migraine in compliance with the classification of the International Headache Society. The treatment must consist of surgical procedures involving the auriculotemporal nerve and/or arteries in site V, with outcome data available for at least 3 months.

Results:

Three hundred twenty-four records were identified after duplicates were removed, 31 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, and 2 records were selected for inclusion. A total of 77 patients were included in the review. A direct approach at the anatomical site identified with careful physical examination and confirmed with a handheld Doppler probe is generally performed under local anesthesia. Blunt dissection to the superficial temporal fascia to expose the auriculotemporal nerve and the superficial temporal artery is followed by artery cauterization/ligament and eventual nerve transection/avulsion. Site V surgery results in a success rate from 79% to 97%.

Conclusions:

Despite the recent advances in extracranial trigger site surgery and a success rate (>50% improvement) from 79% to 97%, site V decompression is still poorly described. Elaborate randomized trials are needed with accurate reporting of patient selection, surgical procedure, adverse events, recurrencies or appearance of new trigger points, quality of life outcome, and longer follow-up times.

Persistent post-traumatic headache: a migrainous loop or not? The clinical evidence

BACKGROUND

Headache is a common complication of traumatic brain injury. The International Headache Society defines post-traumatic headache as a secondary headache attributed to trauma or injury to the head that develops within seven days following trauma. Acute post-traumatic headache resolves after 3 months, but persistent post-traumatic headache usually lasts much longer and accounts for 4% of all secondary headache disorders.

MAIN BODY

The clinical features of post-traumatic headache after traumatic brain injury resemble various types of primary headaches and the most frequent are migraine-like or tension-type-like phenotypes. The neuroimaging studies that have compared persistent post-traumatic headache and migraine found different structural and functional brain changes, although migraine and post-traumatic headache may be clinically similar. Therapy of various clinical phenotypes of post-traumatic headache almost entirely mirrors the therapy of the corresponding primary headache and are currently based on expert opinion rather than scientific evidence. Pharmacologic therapies include both abortive and prophylactic agents with prophylaxis targeting comorbidities, especially impaired sleep and post-traumatic disorder. There are also effective options for non-pharmacologic therapy of post-traumatic headache, including cognitive-behavioral approaches, onabotulinum toxin injections, life-style considerations, etc. CONCLUSION: Notwithstanding some phenotypic similarities, persistent post-traumatic headache after traumatic brain injury, is considered a separate phenomenon from migraine but available data is inconclusive. High-quality studies are further required to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms of this secondary headache, in order to identify new targets for treatment and to prevent disability.

Hospital Burden of Migraine in United States Adults: A 15-year National Inpatient Sample Analysis

Background

Migraine headache is associated with high costs, but changes over time of inpatient burden in the United States are unknown. Understanding longitudinal trends is necessary to determine the costs of evolving inpatient treatments that target biological factors in the generation of pain such as vasodilation and aberrant activity of trigeminal neurotransmitters. We report the migraine hospital burden trend in the United States over 15 years.

Methods

Data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample of the Hospitalization Cost and Utilization Project databases were analyzed from 1997 to 2012. Inpatient costs were reported in dollars for the cost to the institution, whereas charges reflect the amount billed. These parameters were trended and the average annual percent change was calculated to illustrate year-to-year changes.

Results

Overall discharges for migraine headache reached a low of 30,761 discharges in 1999, and peaked in 2012 with 54,510 discharges. Average length of stay decreased from 3.5 days in 1997 to 2.8 days in 2012. Total inpatient charges increased from $176 million in 1999 to $1.2 billion in 2012. Inpatient costs totaled $322 million in 2012, with an average daily cost of $2,111.

Conclusions

Inpatient burden rapidly increased over the analyzed period, with hospital charges increasing from $5,939 per admission and $176 million nationwide in 1997, to $21,576 per admission and $1.2 billion nationwide in 2012. This trend provides context for research examining cost-effectiveness and quality of life benefits for current treatments. The study of these parameters together with better prevention and improved outpatient treatment may help alleviate the inpatient burden of migraine.