Stellate Ganglion Block

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Stellate Ganglion Block

Stellate Ganglion Block

Definition

A stellate ganglion block is a minimally invasive procedure that helps either confirm a diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) or treat pain related to CRPS. This condition is thought to be caused by overactive nerve responses, which induce a heightened sensitivity to pain. A stellate ganglion block impedes pain signals being sent along the nerve’s pathway, effectively reducing pain and other debilitating symptoms. This pain management procedure may also improve blood flow, mobility, and function in the face, shoulder, and arm. If the patient experiences adequate pain relief after the first injection, he or she may be considered for repeat injections. Usually, a series of stellate ganglion block injections are needed to effectively mitigate the problem. Patients typically report several weeks or months of pain relief following their stellate ganglion block injection.

Procedure

Most stellate ganglion blocks are performed using a local anesthetic; nevertheless, a physician may administer an intravenous sedation (IV) if the patient is especially anxious. To begin the procedure, the patient must first lay down on their back with his or her chin raised slightly and turned away from the physician. Shortly thereafter, the skin above the affected nerves must be cleansed with an antiseptic solution before the local anesthetic can be administered. Once the anesthetic takes effect, the physician will use an X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance device to place a fine needle near the stellate ganglion. At this point in the process, the anesthetic and steroid medication is injected into the damaged nerves, providing immediate pain relief. After the medication has been injected, the physician must remove the needle and bandage the surgical site. Patients are then sent to a separate room to recover.

After Care

After the procedure, patients are monitored closely to ensure no complications or side effects are present. Patients may experience a lump in the throat, hoarse voice, droopy or red eye, headache, or nasal congestion following their stellate ganglion block. These side effects are common and should subside within a few hours or days. A friend or family member will need to take the patient home after he or she gets discharged. While there is no way to predict the success of a stellate ganglion block, patients with mild to moderate cases of CRPS generally experience several weeks or months of pain relief. Patients should report any signs of a fever, infection, swelling, or redness surrounding the injection site to their Tulsa Pain physician immediately.

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