What to Expect During Your Stellate Ganglion Block
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic pain by blocking nerve signals. At Presidio Pain Relief, our board-certified pain management specialist, Dr. Robert Savala MD is committed to providing our patients with effective and innovative pain management solutions. Discover how Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) can relieve pain and improve the quality of life by targeting the sympathetic nervous system.
For more information, contact us or book an appointment. We are conveniently located at 2000 Van Ness Ave, #208 San Francisco, CA 94109.
What is a stellate ganglion block?
The stellate ganglion, a group of nerves situated at the base of the neck, can sometimes malfunction and cause substantial pain and discomfort in the upper body, including the face, neck, chest, and arms. By injecting an anesthetic medication into the stellate ganglion, we can temporarily block the transmission of nerve signals and reduce the severity of these symptoms.
This procedure is typically administered by our experienced pain management specialists or anesthesiologists. With the patient comfortably positioned on their back, the neck area is sterilized and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. Using imaging guidance for precision, the specialist then carefully inserts a needle into the stellate ganglion and injects the anesthetic medication.
The stellate ganglion block is an outpatient procedure, taking approximately 30 minutes and allowing patients to return home the same day. The effects can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks or even months, varying based on the individual patient and their specific condition.
How do you prepare for a stellate ganglion block?
To ensure your stellate ganglion block is successful and comfortable, we provide comprehensive guidance on pre-procedure preparations. We will also review any medications you may be taking. The fasting period before the procedure is typically six to eight hours. Comfortable and loose-fitting clothing is recommended to facilitate easy access to the injection site, and we advise arranging transportation as the anesthesia may leave you feeling groggy.
On the day of your procedure, arrive at the agreed time and location, and ensure your consent form is signed. We will make sure you're comfortable and explain every step of the process. From the initial local anesthetic to the final injection into the stellate ganglion, we prioritize patient comfort and safety.
After the stellate ganglion block, it's normal to experience some numbness or tingling in the face, neck, or arm on the injected side. Rest is recommended, and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 24 hours. Pain control medication may be provided if necessary.
How long does it typically take for a stellate ganglion block to work?
Once the local anesthetic is injected, patients typically start to experience pain relief within a period of 15 to 30 minutes. This relief may come as a sensation of warmth, tingling, or numbness in the affected area. However, the full benefits may not be noticeable until a couple of hours following the injection.
The duration of the stellate ganglion block's effects can vary among individuals. Some may find relief for several hours, while others might experience pain relief for several weeks or even months. The effects are not always permanent, and repeat injections may be necessary.
What should I expect during a stellate ganglion block procedure?
Our team will explain the procedure in detail, discussing potential benefits, risks, and alternative treatment options. To ensure your safety, we may order specific lab tests, such as blood or imaging tests, and give instructions regarding food, drink, and medication intake before the procedure.
Our staff will guide you through each step, from when you arrive at our facility, through the procedure, and during your recovery period. We adhere to the highest standards of safety as well as hygiene, cleaning the injection site with a sterile solution and using X-ray or ultrasound guidance to accurately position the needle.
At Presidio Pain Relief, we understand that each patient's experience is unique. Common reactions post-procedure may include temporary hoarseness, a droopy eyelid, or a warm, tingling sensation in your arm and hand.
We know that relief from nerve pain can significantly improve the quality of life. A stellate ganglion block can provide this relief, lasting from several hours to several weeks. If your pain returns, our team is ready to assist and discuss the next steps for your treatment.
Presidio Pain Relief is here to guide you through the treatment process and is available to answer any questions you may have regarding the stellate ganglion block procedure and its costs.
For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2000 Van Ness Ave, #208 San Francisco, CA 94109. We serve patients from Daly City CA, Sunset District CA, Bernal Heights CA, Bayview CA, Mission District CA, and surrounding areas.
