Anatomical and Anatomo–Radiological Basis of the Chronic Stimulation of the Sphenopalatine Ganglion for the Treatment of Cluster Headaches

The objective is to establish the anatomical relations and the characteristics of involved structures in relation with the pterygopalatine ganglion (sphenopalatine ganglion) in order to justify the different aspects of the tactics and techniques facing the therapeutics of the painful syndromes of neurovegetative origin in the deep region of pterygopalatine fossa. Data base information, cadaveric material and also radiological studies during the interventions of sphenopalatal stimulation were used to establish the parameters needed to guarantee that the pterygopalatine ganglion (sphenopalatine ganglion) is included in the electrical field. The anatomical studies infer that electrodes placement in the more exact area defines the localization of the sphenopalatal ganglion and its branches presented better results in pain control of the treated patients. We have tried to document the anatomical basis that support the surgical technique for the treatment of cluster headache syndrome (justifying neurovegetative manifestations with nocturnal aggravation).