MATERIAL and METHODS: 76 patients underwent surgical decompression of the great occipital nerve. A nerve block was tested before operation. The headache rapidly resolved after infiltration of 1% Lidocaine near the tender area of the nerve trunk.

RESULTS: 89 procedures were performed for 76 patients. The mean follow up duration was 20 months (range 7–52 months). The headache symptoms of 68 (89.5%) patients were completely resolved, and another 5 (6.6%) patients were significantly relieved without the need for any further medical treatment. Three (3.9%) patients experienced recurrence of the disorder. All patients experienced hypoesthesia of the innervated area of the great occipital nerve. They recovered gradually within 1 to 6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION: Micro-surgical decompression of the greater occipital nerve is a safe and effective method for greater occipital neuralgia. We believe our findings support the notion that the technique should also be considered as the first-line procedure for GON. Keywords : Headache, Greater occipital neuralgia, Surgical decompression