A Stellate Ganglion block is an injection of numbing medicine to the sympathetic nerves that go down your shoulder and arms. The injection is in the front of your neck on either side of your trachea and esophagus.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF IT?
The Stellate Ganglion block numbs the sympathetic nerves of the arms. This may help reduce pain, swelling, color and sweating changes. This injection is utilized to help treat CRPS (complex regional pain syndrome,) RSD (reflex sympathetic dystrophy,) or any type of sympathetically mediated pain of the upper extremity, neck or face.
HOW LONG DOES THE INJECTION TAKE?
The actual injection only takes a few minutes. You can expect to be in the procedure room for about 15 minutes for positioning, placing monitors, preparation, and the procedure.
What is injected?
A local anesthetic (numbing medicine) is injected. There may be one or two other types of medicine added to help prolong the block.
Will the injection hurt?
Most patients tolerate the injection very well. Numbing medicine is placed under the skin that feels like a poke and a burn. After that, you most likely will only feel pressure. If you feel any pain during the injection, more numbing medicine can be given. If you choose, you may have intravenous sedation to help you relax.
Will I be "put out" for this procedure?
No. The safest way to do this procedure is under local anesthesia. You may choose to have intravenous sedation, which will help you relax, but you will always be awake during the procedure to minimize the chance of any nerve damage.
How is the injection performed?
You will be lying on your back on an x-ray table. We will monitor your blood pressure, heart rhythm, and blood oxygen. Your skin will be cleansed with an antiseptic. After the injection, you will be placed on a bed and moved to the recovery area.
