Stellate Ganglion Block

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What is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

A stellate ganglion block is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the stellate ganglion—a collection of nerves located in the neck that is part of the sympathetic nervous system. By injecting medication near these nerves, the block can alleviate pain and other symptoms in the head, neck, upper chest, and arms, and treat certain sympathetic nervous system disorders.

Indications for Stellate Ganglion Block

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

A chronic pain condition affecting the arms or legs.

Refractory Angina

Severe chest pain that does not respond to standard treatments.

Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Pain associated with shingles, particularly affecting the face and upper body.

Vascular Insufficiency

Poor blood flow to the arms or hands.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Emerging use in the treatment of PTSD symptoms.

Raynaud’s Phenomenon

A condition causing some areas of the body to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress.

Hot Flashes

Severe menopausal symptoms.

Procedure

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Preparation

The patient is positioned comfortably, and the skin over the target area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
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Imaging Guidance

Using fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance) or ultrasound, the physician accurately guides a needle to the area near the stellate ganglion.
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Injection

A mixture of a local anesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid is injected to block the nerve signals.
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Observation

The patient is monitored for a short time after the injection to assess immediate pain relief and any adverse reactions

Benefits

Stellate Ganglion Block2
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Effective Pain Relief: Provides significant reduction in pain and sympathetic symptoms in the upper body.

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Minimally Invasive: Less risk and recovery time compared to surgical options.

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Quick Procedure: Typically completed in less than 30 minutes.

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Improved Quality of Life: Enhances overall functionality by alleviating chronic pain and other symptoms.

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Reduced Need for Oral Medications: Lowers reliance on pain medications with potential side effects.

Risks and Considerations

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Infection: Slight risk of infection at the injection site.

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Bleeding: Rare cases of bleeding, especially in patients with bleeding disorders or on blood-thinning medications.

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Pneumothorax: Accidental puncture of the lung, leading to a collapsed lung, is a rare but serious complication.

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Nerve Damage: Potential for temporary or permanent nerve damage.

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Horner’s Syndrome: Drooping eyelid, pupil constriction, and reduced sweating on one side of the face may occur temporarily.

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Allergic Reaction: Possible reaction to the medications used.

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Temporary Increase in Pain: Some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain post-injection.

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Limited Duration of Relief: Pain relief may be temporary, requiring repeat injections or additional treatments.

Post-Procedure Care

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Rest

It is recommended to rest for the first 24 hours post-injection.
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Activity Modification

Gradually return to normal activities, avoiding strenuous activities for a few days.
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Pain Monitoring

Keep track of pain levels and any changes in symptoms.
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Follow-Up

Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the effectiveness of the injection and any further treatment options.

Who Can Benefit?

Patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, oral medications, or lifestyle changes may benefit from a stellate ganglion block. It is particularly useful for those with chronic pain and sympathetic disorders affecting their quality of life.

Conclusion

Stellate ganglion blocks offer a targeted and effective approach to managing chronic pain and sympathetic nervous system disorders in the upper body. By blocking pain signals and improving blood flow, this procedure can significantly enhance quality of life and functionality. For personalized care and to determine if a stellate ganglion block is right for you, consult the specialists at ALGOS.

Located centrally on Cunningham Road in Bengaluru, our clinic is easily accessible from all parts of the city, ensuring high-quality pain management services are available to everyone.

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