"Hospital Discharge Rate for Trigeminal Neuralgia in Chile: A Descriptive Analysis of the 2020–2023 Period"

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic paroxysmal facial pain caused by injury to the trigeminal nerve. Objective: To determine the hospital discharge rate (HDR) for trigeminal neuralgia in Chile during the 2020–2023 period. Methods: Observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. Hospital discharge data were collected from the Department of Health Statistics and Information (DEIS) and the National Institute of Statistics (INE). A descriptive analysis of the HDR for trigeminal neuralgia was conducted for the 2020–2023 period in Chile, stratified by sex, age, and average hospital length of stay. Results: A total of 1,148 cases were analyzed, yielding a period rate of 2.24 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with a progressive increase observed throughout the study years. A female predominance was noted (2.5-fold higher), with rates increasing with advancing age. The mean hospital stay was calculated at 3.95 days, slightly longer in women. Discussion: The data align with international trends indicating a rise in HDR for this condition, potentially associated with increased availability of treatment options. The short average length of stay suggests minimal surgical complications, and the female predominance may be linked to heightened pain intensity due to menopause and lower tolerance to preventive pharmacotherapy. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need to analyze the affected population in order to develop targeted action plans aimed at reducing hospital burden. Keywords: Chile, Epidemiology, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Neurology, Hospitalization.