KIMS successfully conducts non-surgical advanced treatment for facial pain for the first time in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) has achieved a significant feat by performing a minimally invasive procedure called ‘Balloon Microcompression’ on a woman who was suffering from unbearable facial pain for the last seven years. This pioneering procedure was the first of its kind in Odisha and was aimed at reducing the excruciating discomfort that had severely affected her daily life.

The patient, a woman, suffered from trigeminal neuralgia, a debilitating condition characterized by sharp, stabbing, and electric shock-like pain. This condition is so painful that it is often called a “suicidal disease” because of the extreme pain it causes.

Dr Rajendra Sahu, consultant in pain and palliative medicine at KIMS, and his team performed the advanced procedure on the women.

The entire procedure was completed within 30 minutes, bringing immediate relief to the patient. Remarkably, the patient was seen smiling in the recovery ward, completely free from persistent pain. Able to eat comfortably without experiencing any further pain, she was discharged the next day, marking a dramatic change in her quality of life.

The severity of pain in patients suffering from trigeminal neuralgia can last from a few seconds to minutes. Daily routines like brushing, chewing and even speaking become unbearable.
While exploring options such as radiofrequency ablation and balloon micro-compression, Dr. Sahu chose the latter option due to its lower risk of side effects such as corneal ulcers or keratitis compared to radiofrequency ablation.

“The minimally invasive ‘balloon micro-compression’ procedure involves using a 14G needle under general anesthesia to avoid any incisions or stitches. Fluoroscopy, guided by a special X-ray machine, allows us to reach the base of the skull, targeting a small opening called the “foramen ovale”. The balloon was then carefully inflated for 90 seconds over the “trigeminal ganglion,” the source of the excruciating pain, Dr. Sahu said.

Dr. Achyuta Samant, Founder of KIIT and KISS, has congratulated the medical team for the success, and emphasized KIMS’s commitment to provide advanced health care support with care and compassion.