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What do I need to know before my injection?
Dr. Jeffrey Grossman answers...
We have injection patient instructions and patient forms available for download and print prior to your visit.
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Back Pain Treatments Back Surgery Alternatives Stellate Ganglion Blocks
Non-Surgical Treatments:
Stellate Ganglion Block
Stellate ganglion blocks are performed to relieve head, face and arm pain caused by complex regional pain syndromes. Complex regional pain syndromes transmit pain signals via the sympathetic chain. An injection of local anesthetic over the stellate ganglion can relieve this type of "sympathetic" pain in the head, face and arm. A series of injections may be needed to provide successful pain relief.
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- How Does It Work?
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- How Is It Done?
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- What Are The Risks?
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- What Can I Expect After?
How Does It Work?
Complex regional pain syndromes transmit pain signals via the sympathetic chain. An injection of local anesthetic over the stellate ganglion can relieve this type of “sympathetic” pain in the head, face and arm. The stellate ganglion is the uppermost part of the sympathetic chain and lies along the front of the vertebra in the neck. The right stellate ganglion receives sympathetic signals from the right arm, and the left sided stellate ganglion accounts for the left arm.
How Is It Done?
Using fluoroscopic guidance (X-ray), a needle is directed to the stellate ganglion at the C6 vertebra in the neck. Moderate sedation and/or a local anesthetic may be used to ensure the patient's comfort. A small amount of X-ray dye is injected to confirm proper placement of the needle. Then a local anesthetic is injected. The patient may feel warmness in the arm after the injection. The needle is removed and the patient is taken to the recovery room.
What Are The Risks?
As with any invasive procedure there are some risks and complications associated with stellate ganglion blocks. Any time a needle is put into the body; there is a risk of infection or bleeding, or allergic reaction. The risk of infection is reduced by using sterile techniques. The risk of bleeding is very minimal if patients are not on any blood thinners. There are very few allergic reactions to the medications that are used for the injection. If any allergic reactions are identified, medications will be given and patients will be observed to prevent any serious complications. Stellate ganglion blocks pose a risk for a drop of blood pressure, lung puncture, seizures, and trouble swallowing.
What Can I Expect After?
Common side effects of stellate ganglion blocks include nasal congestion, hoarse voice, and a warm tingling sensation in the arm and hand. The eye on the side of the injection will become bloodshot and droopy. The eye symptoms should improve in 4-5 hours as the local anesthetic wears off. Patients usually go home about 20-30 minutes after the injection. Patients are advised to rest on the day of the injection, but may return to normal activities the next day. Repeat injections may be needed to provide optimal pain relief. Patients will often be instructed to make a follow-up appointment after the injection.