Our Summary

This research paper is about headaches, specifically neurovascular headaches, which are a group of pain disorders that affect the head and neck. These headaches are common and often treated by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. The type of medication used to treat these headaches usually depends on the severity of the symptoms and how much the pain affects the patient’s daily life. The paper discusses the prevalence of these headaches, how they present themselves, how patients are diagnosed, and the latest medication treatments that can be used to help patients. Some of the specific types of headaches discussed include cluster headaches, migraines, and headaches caused by overuse of medication.

FAQs

  1. What are neurovascular headaches and how are they typically treated?
  2. How do oral and maxillofacial surgeons diagnose neurovascular headaches?
  3. What are some of the latest medication treatments for neurovascular headaches discussed in this research paper?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include avoiding certain medications, abstaining from eating or drinking before surgery, and following a specific diet or exercise plan post-surgery. It is important to adhere to these instructions to ensure a successful surgery and recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery to treat neurovascular headaches typically include those who have not responded well to conservative treatments such as medications, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy. Patients with severe and chronic headaches that significantly impact their quality of life, work, and daily activities may also be candidates for surgery.

Additionally, patients with specific underlying conditions that contribute to their headaches, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, trigeminal neuralgia, or sleep apnea, may benefit from maxillofacial surgery. These conditions can cause referred pain to the head and neck region, leading to neurovascular headaches.

Furthermore, patients who have structural abnormalities in the jaw, facial bones, or surrounding tissues that may be contributing to their headaches may also be recommended for maxillofacial surgery. These abnormalities can include malocclusions, facial trauma, or tumors that are compressing nerves or blood vessels in the head and neck area.

Overall, the decision to recommend maxillofacial surgery for patients with neurovascular headaches is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the patient’s medical history, symptoms, response to previous treatments, and the underlying cause of their headaches. It is essential for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons, neurologists, and pain management specialists, to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Patient experiences chronic headaches and seeks medical attention for relief.
  2. Patient undergoes a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine the cause of the headaches.
  3. Diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scans may be ordered to further investigate the underlying issue.
  4. If it is determined that the headaches are caused by a maxillofacial issue such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), the patient may be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for further evaluation and treatment.

After maxillofacial surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes maxillofacial surgery to correct the underlying issue causing the headaches.
  2. Recovery period post-surgery may involve pain management and follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress.
  3. Patient may experience relief from headaches as the underlying issue is addressed through surgery.
  4. Patient may be prescribed medication to manage any residual pain or discomfort post-surgery.
  5. Patient is advised on post-operative care and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and long-term success of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about maxillofacial surgery for neurovascular headaches may include:

  1. What specific type of maxillofacial surgery is recommended for treating my neurovascular headaches?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after the surgery, and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions or attend follow-up appointments?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for surgery?
  6. How successful is maxillofacial surgery in treating neurovascular headaches, and what are the expected outcomes?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or habits that I should adopt to help prevent or manage my headaches after surgery?
  8. How experienced is the surgeon in performing this type of surgery, and what is their success rate with similar cases?
  9. What is the cost of the surgery, and will it be covered by my insurance?
  10. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients undergoing maxillofacial surgery for neurovascular headaches?

Reference

Authors: Halpern LR, Gammal P, Adams DR. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2022 Feb;34(1):83-97. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2021.08.010. PMID: 34802617