What side effects are expected from a bilateral, total sensory rhizotomy near the pons?

Rhizotomy: There have been few studies of the effectiveness of trigeminal nerve rhizotomy in the relief of trigeminal neuralgia. However, the studies did show it seems to be effective and well tolerated. The major complication is facial numbness. Rarely, but importantly there have been some cases where the neuralgia returns more severe than before. If this happens, contact your doctor asap.