Knowledge and use of pericranial nerve blocks in headache treatment in Mexico.

Abstract

Background: In developed countries, most of the neurologists use pericranial nerve blocks to treat headache patients, nevertheless, the knowledge and use patterns of this technique in developing countries are unknown.

Objective: Evaluate the knowledge and use patterns of pericranial nerve blocks in headache treatment by Mexican neurologists.

Material and methods: We did a cross-sectional study, 90 Mexican neurologists completed a 26-question survey including data about sociodemographics, knowledge and patterns of use of pericranial nerve blocks. All statistical analyses were performed with R (version 4.2.0).

Results: The mean age was 43.2 + 9.9 years, 55(61.1%) were men. In terms of knowledge, migraine was correctly identified by 74 participants (82.2%), while cluster headache by 65 participants (72.2%) as indications for pericranial nerve blocks. Regarding the use patterns of pericranial nerve blocks, 87(96.7%) of the neurologists had heard about the technique, but only 12(13.3%) use it in their clinical practice. In terms of education, 19(21.1%) received training during the residency and 27(30%) during the post-residency period.

Conclusions: The knowledge and use of pericranial nerve blocks for the treatment of headaches in Mexico is low. Stakeholders should develop strategies to improve the field of headache disorders in Mexico.