Stellate Ganglion Block
Stellate Ganglion Blocks
The stellate ganglion is a pair of nerve bundles located on either side of the lower neck, near the voice box. While typically controlling involuntary functions, they also carry pain signals to the brain. Your doctor may perform a stellate ganglion block to determine the source of your pain, as well as to treat a variety of conditions, including pain of the head and face, complex regional pain syndrome of the upper limbs, chest, cluster headaches, phantom limb pain, or pain caused by infections such as shingles.
This procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure and is done under local anesthetic. Once the injection area is numbed, your doctor will use x-rays to guide the needle to the nerves being treated and inject dye to confirm the correct placement, followed by a solution of anesthetic along the stellate ganglion. Once completed, the doctor will observe you for any side effects, then release you. It is recommended you get a ride to and from the appointment.
After your block, it is normal to experience droopy eyelids, tearing, bloodshot eyes, change in temperature in the arm, and/or change in voice or swallowing. These are temporary, subsiding within a few hours, and are a sign of an adequate block of the stellate ganglion. Risks are minimal, but include bleeding, infection, dizziness, or nerve damage. If you are on blood thinners, are immunosuppressed, have an active infection, or are pregnant, let your doctor know, as these could present additional complications. The stellate ganglion block is just one of the many tools our doctors use to find and treat your pain thoroughly and efficiently. Call one of our offices today to learn more!
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