An international expert on trigeminal neuralgia, a searing type of facial pain, leads our team of specialists at the OHSU Brain Institute. Dr. Kim Burchiel and his team are dedicated to finding the exact cause of your pain and the best way to treat it.

Our advanced care includes:

• The most advanced tools and strategies, developed here at OHSU, to make an accurate diagnosis.
• A team of surgeons, physician associates and nurses who will work closely with your primary care provider.
• 3D images to pinpoint the cause of your pain and to guide your treatment.
• The most advanced treatments, including the latest surgical options.
• Care by providers on the leading edge of research discoveries.
• A full menu of support services for you and your family.

Learn more

• Understanding facial pain (trigeminal neuralgia)
• Facial pain diagnosis and treatment
• Questions and answers about our diagnostic tool

Convenience

Our clinic is in the Center for Health & Healing Building 1, on OHSU’s South Waterfront Campus. The building has parking, and it’s on bus and light-rail lines. It’s also next to the Portland Aerial Tram, offering quick access to any service you might need on our Marquam Hill Campus.

Research and clinical trials

OHSU patients benefit from research that has transformed the understanding and treatment of trigeminal neuralgia. Our research has made OHSU an international leader in diagnosing and treating facial pain.

Classifying facial pain: Dr. Burchiel’s groundbreaking classification system for facial pain is now widely accepted and followed by providers around the world. His categories make it easier for providers to identify and treat different types of pain based on a patient’s history. Learn more about this system on our Understanding Facial Pain page.

Interactive diagnostic tool: Our team developed the world’s first computer program to diagnose facial pain with yes/no questions. The online tool is programmed to think like Dr. Burchiel and is highly accurate. It enables patients and providers to make a diagnosis so they can quickly seek effective treatment.

DNA research: Dr. Burchiel is a lead investigator on an international study to find the genes that cause trigeminal neuralgia. The Facial Pain Research Foundation hopes the study helps unlock a cure.

Clinical trials: The OHSU Brain Institute offers the opportunity to participate in clinical trials. Trials give patients access to the newest therapies while helping researchers find ways to improve patient care.