Glossopharyngeal and vagal neuralgia.

Tic douloureux involving the glossopharyngeal nerve is rare and when it does occur probably often involves the vagus nerve as well. Many cases are undoubtedly not recognized, and yet the condition responds favourably and permanently to intracranial section of the glossopharyngeal nerve and upper filaments of the vagus nerve. We therefore propose to review the literature, discuss our own experiences, and try to clarify the clinical syndromes that this condition presents and the surgical approach that is required.