Arnold, TN Patient

His Personal Story with Botox

I first learned that I suffered from TN in the late 80's. Since then I have undergone an MVD, Glycerol Injection, and Gamma Knife. I was about to undergo another surgical procedure when a surgeon at Mass General Hospital suggested I ought to consider a "chemical" solution instead, as it was his belief that such a solution held more promise.  Consequently, he referred me to Dr. Martin Acquadro.

Under Dr. Acquadro's care I was asked if I wished to undergo "Botox" treatment for TN.  Although such treatments were new and in the experimental stage, he felt they did hold promise. As a result I was referred to Dr. Gary E. Borodic. You should note that both these men were speakers for TNA's 5th National Conference held in November.

I began Botox treatments with Dr. Borodic approximately 3 years ago. Prior to that time I experienced bouts of very very severe break-through pain. Break-through pain is that which is over and above the "normal" pain and is of the sort where only narcotics helped by putting me to sleep.

I feared the pain and detested having to take such powerful and dangerous drugs. The break-through pain would occur regularly, perhaps every 4 to 5 months, and bouts would last for several days with the intense pain continuing for hours with brief periods of relief. As other TN suffers know, dealing with the TN pain which is controllable is a challenge; break-through pain is simply impossible.

Most of us who deal regularly with TN grasp at straws and I was no different. Since nothing helped I was prepared to visit a witch doctor and dance naked around a tree.  So why not try Botox administered by a highly qualified (and I learned a sensitive, caring ) physician?

Fortunately, in my case since beginning Botox I have had no break-through pain. None! ! !  Perhaps it could be said that my experienced is anecdotal, but nonetheless I am relating my experience with Dr. Borodic and Botox. I submit it is an approach that deserves much more support and funding. While it may not be the "silver bullet" it seems to have much much promise.

Updated 1-7-05