What is a ganglion block used for?

A stellate ganglion block is done to: Diagnose the cause of pain in the face and head, arms and chest. Manage pain in the head, neck, chest or arm caused by nerve injuries, the effects of an attack of shingles (herpes zoster) or angina that doesn’t go away. Reduce sweating in the face, head, arms and hands.

How much does SGB treatment cost?

Costs of SGB Treatment In contrast, SGB injections are a less expensive alternative, and are estimated to cost between $2,000 to $3,000 per patient for full treatment.

How long does a ganglion block last?

There are some expected changes that result from blocking the sympathetic nerves. These changes last for the life of the local anesthetic (about four to six hours).

What does the stellate ganglion innervate?

Anatomy. The stellate ganglion is formed by the fusion of the inferior cervical and superior thoracic sympathetic ganglia and provides most of the sympathetic innervation to the head, neck, upper extremity, and a portion of the upper thorax.

How do you feel after a stellate ganglion block?

Immediately after the injection, you may feel your arm getting warm. In addition, you may notice that your pain may be gone or quite less. You may also notice “a lump in the throat” as well as hoarse voice, a droopy and red eye and some nasal congestion on the side of the injection.

Does insurance cover SGB?

Is SGB covered by my insurance? Your initial consultation and follow up exams are covered by most insurances. However, the SGB procedure itself is not covered by insurance when used to treat PTSD.

How long does SGB last?

Specifically, this treatments resets the brain to baseline or pre-traumatic levels. Results and relief have been seen within 30 minutes and can last from a few months to years.

What kind of injection is a stellate ganglion block?

A stellate ganglion block is an injection of local anesthetic (numbing medicine) to block the sympathetic nerves located on either side of the voice box in the neck.

How are stellate ganglion injections used to treat PTSD?

A stellate ganglion block (SGB) treats nerve pain in the upper body and alleviates hot flashes, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and vascular disease symptoms. A stellate ganglion block (SGB) delivers anesthetic medication to a group of nerves, the stellate ganglion, that is found in front of your neck, on either side of the voice box.

What is the function of the stellate ganglion?

The stellate ganglion is part of the sympathetic nervous system that is located in your neck, on either side of your voice box. A stellate ganglion block is an injection of medication into these nerves that can help relieve pain in the head, neck, upper arm and upper chest.

What are the symptoms of a stellate ganglion block?

Stellate Ganglion Blocks. These changes are temporary and may last about 4 – 6 hours. Such changes include the following symptoms on the same side as the injection: drooping of the eyelid, bloodshot eye, stuffy nose and a temperature increase in the arm. You may also experience some hoarseness.