Stellate Ganglion Nerve Block
A stellate ganglion nerve block (SGB) is an injection used to relieve pain and improve circulation in the head, neck, upper chest, and arms.
The stellate ganglion is a collection of nerves located in the neck (on either side of the voice box), part of the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates blood flow, pain signals, and involuntary functions. By injecting a local anesthetic near this nerve cluster, doctors can:
- Temporarily numb the stellate ganglion
- Reduce abnormal nerve activity
- Improve blood flow and circulation
- Provide pain relief and diagnostic insight into whether the sympathetic nervous system is contributing to your symptoms
Who Benefits from a Stellate Ganglion Nerve Block
At iSpine Clinics, you may be a candidate for a stellate ganglion nerve block if you experience:
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) of the arm or hand
What to Expect
- Preparation: You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home.
- Positioning: You will lie on your back with your head slightly turned.
- Local Anesthetic: The injection site (side of the lower neck) will be cleaned and numbed.
- Imaging Guidance: Fluoroscopy (X-ray) or ultrasound is used to guide the needle precisely, near the voice box.
- Injection: A thin needle is inserted near the stellate ganglion, and a local anesthetic is injected. Sometimes steroids are added for longer relief.
- Duration: The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.
- Outpatient: Patients go home the same day.
After the Procedure
- Immediate Effects: You may notice warmth, redness, or heaviness in the face, arm, or hand on the treated side — this is expected and a sign that the block reached the nerve.
- You may experience hoarseness for a few hours. Once your voice returns to normal, you can begin sipping water and work your way up to solid foods.
- Pain Relief: Some patients feel immediate pain relief, while others may need a series of injections for maximum benefit.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Activity: Rest for the remainder of the day; normal activity can usually resume the following day.
- Monitoring: Track changes in pain and function — this helps determine whether the stellate ganglion is the correct target for treatment.
- Repeat Treatments: Some patients may need a series of blocks to achieve lasting relief.
- Follow-up Care: This procedure is often part of a broader treatment plan, which may include physical therapy, medications, or other pain management techniques.
How Long Do Results Last?
Pain relief is different for each patient. Some may be pain-free for days, weeks, or months and usually there is a need for multiple procedures. The relief tends to last longer with each treatment.
Risks and Considerations
Stellate ganglion blocks are generally safe, but risks may include:
- Temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site
- Low blood pressure, lightheadedness, or dizziness
- Difficulty swallowing (temporary)
- Infection or bleeding (rare)
- Nerve injury or allergic reaction (very rare)