The stellate ganglion block (SGB) is an innovative medical procedure that has shown potential in treating a variety of conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and even some symptoms associated with long COVID. Before delving into its applications, let’s understand what the stellate ganglion is.
Medical Definition of Stellate Ganglion
The stellate ganglion is a star-shaped collection of sympathetic nerve cell bodies located in the neck, specifically at the level of the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae (C6-C7) and the first thoracic vertebra (T1). It is formed by the fusion of the inferior cervical ganglion and the first thoracic ganglion. The stellate ganglion is part of the sympathetic nervous system and plays a crucial role in regulating various functions of the head, neck, arms, and upper chest, including blood flow, sweating, and certain pain pathways.
The Procedure
A stellate ganglion block involves injecting a local anesthetic near this nerve cluster and should be performed by a trained pain management specialist or anesthesiologist. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in an office setting using fluoroscopy to ensure accuracy. A SBG temporarily interrupts the function of the stellate ganglion, potentially resetting overactive sympathetic responses where effects can last from hours to months, with some patients requiring multiple treatments for optimal results.
PTSD and Depression
For individuals suffering from PTSD and depression, SGB has emerged as a hopeful treatment option. The procedure is thought to work by resetting the fight-or-flight response, which is often overactive in people with these conditions. Studies have shown that some patients experience rapid and significant relief from symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional numbing after receiving an SGB.
A 2014 study published in the journal Military Medicine found that 75% of veterans with PTSD who received SGB reported a clinically significant reduction in symptoms. These results are encouraging for those who have not found adequate relief through traditional treatments.
Long COVID Symptoms
As the medical community continues to grapple with the long-term effects of COVID-19, SGB has gained attention as a potential treatment for certain long COVID symptoms. Some patients with persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and dysautonomia (dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system) have reported improvement after undergoing the procedure.
The theory behind using SGB for long COVID is that the virus may cause inflammation or dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, leading to ongoing symptoms. By temporarily blocking the stellate ganglion, the treatment may help reset neural pathways and reduce inflammation
Conclusion
As research continues, stellate ganglion block shows promise as a treatment option for individuals struggling with PTSD, depression, and certain long COVID symptoms who have not found relief through conventional treatments. While SGB offers a non-invasive treatment option, it is typically integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that may include psychotherapy and medications.
Contact our office to schedule a consultation to determine if SGB is an appropriate treatment option for your specific situation.
Dr. Thomas Weber is board certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist.
