Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment in Philadelphia

What is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

A Stellate Ganglion Block is a medical procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion, a collection of nerves located at the base of the neck in the cervical spine area. This procedure can help alleviate pain and symptoms associated with various conditions by blocking the transmission of pain signals along the nerves.

The Meeting Point Health Difference

Many who specialize in this procedure only treat the stellate ganglion, known for mitigating sympathetic overdrive in conditions such as PTSD and chronic pain. What distinguishes us is our integrative strategy, by not only addressing sympathetic dominance via the stellate, but also parasympathetic issues in the vagus nerve. Our holistic approach addresses both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems to bring equilibrium within the autonomic nervous system. By treating all aspects of nervous system regulation, we find our approach to be most comprehensive in promoting optimal well-being in our patients.

Conditions Stellate Ganglion Block Treats

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

Stellate Ganglion Block has gained significant attention for its potential to treat PTSD, particularly in military veterans and individuals who have experienced traumatic events. The procedure may help reduce the symptoms associated with PTSD, such as anxiety, nightmares, and hypervigilance. While more research is needed, some patients have reported substantial improvements in their overall quality of life following SGB treatment.

2. Chronic Pain:

Stellate Ganglion Blocks can be an effective option for managing chronic pain conditions, such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), nerve pain, and certain types of headaches. By blocking the pain signals in the nerves, SGB can provide temporary relief from debilitating pain and improve patients’ ability to engage in daily activities.

3. Circulatory Disorders:

In some cases, SGB may be recommended as a treatment option for circulatory disorders like Raynaud’s disease of the upper extremity or frostbite. By increasing blood flow to the affected areas, this procedure can help reduce symptoms such as cold extremities and skin discoloration.

Additional conditions that Stellate Ganglion Block has proven to be successful in treating include:

• Chronic Viral Conditions such as Epstein Barr Virus and Long COVID
• Depression
• Anxiety
• OCD
• CRPS
• Phantom Limb Pain
• Parosmia

The Stellate Ganglion Block Procedure

Pre-Procedure Evaluation:

Before undergoing a Stellate Ganglion Block, patients will have a comprehensive evaluation by our experienced medical team at Meeting Point Health. This evaluation includes a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and discussion of treatment goals and expectations.

The Procedure Itself:

The SGB procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and involves the following steps:

1. Patient Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, usually lying on their back, and the treatment area is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Anesthetic Injection: A local anesthetic is administered to numb the skin and tissues around the injection site, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure.
3. Needle Insertion: A fine needle is guided into the stellate ganglion using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray) or ultrasound for precise placement.
4. Injection of Medication (Anesthetic and Stem Cell): Once the needle is in the correct position, the anesthetic medication (ropivacaine) is injected into the stellate ganglion. This medication temporarily blocks the pain signals transmitted by the nerves. As a premier Regenerative Medicine clinic, Dr. Matta may also suggest the use of allogeneic stem cell to be used along with the anesthetic to ultimately heal the nerve itself.
5. Monitoring and Recovery: After the injection, patients are monitored for a short period to ensure they are stable. They may then return home on the same day but need a driver to accompany them home.

Post-Procedure Care:

Patients may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the arm and face on the same side as the injection. These side effects are normal and subside within a few hours. It is also for this reason that we only treat one side (left or right) at a time. It’s essential to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by our medical team to maximize the benefits of the treatment, such as sleep and rest for 24 hours.

Benefits of Stellate Ganglion Block

• Pain Relief: SGB can provide rapid and significant pain relief for various conditions, enhancing patients’ quality of life.
• Minimal Invasive: It is a minimally invasive procedure with a relatively low risk of complications.
• No Surgery: SGB eliminates the need for surgical intervention in many cases, reducing recovery time.
• Potential for PTSD Improvement: While results can vary, some patients with PTSD report a reduction in symptoms and improved mental well-being following SGB.

Our skilled medical team at Meeting Point Health prioritizes patient safety and well-being, and we ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to minimize risks during the procedure.

Common Questions Asked About Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment

1. Is SGB a surgical procedure?

No, SGB is not a surgical procedure. It is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that does not require incisions or general anesthesia.

2. Is SGB painful?

The procedure itself is generally well-tolerated and relatively painless. Patients may experience a brief stinging sensation during the local anesthetic injection, but this discomfort is usually minimal and temporary. Please always discuss your anxieties and concerns with Dr. Matta. There are several options to discuss to ensure a smooth and anxiety free procedure, including ProNox.

3. How long does the SGB procedure take?

The actual SGB procedure usually takes only a few minutes. However, patients should expect to spend additional time on preparation, ultrasound imaging and monitoring. Estimate at least 1-2 hours in the office and be sure you have a ride home

4. How long does the pain relief from SGB last?

The duration of pain relief can vary from person to person and depends on the underlying condition being treated. Some patients experience relief for several weeks to months, while others may need repeat injections for longer-lasting effects.

5. Are there any side effects of SGB?

Patients may experience temporary side effects, including a hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing, or drooping eyelids. These effects are normal and typically resolve within 24 hours, but sometimes longer.

6. How many SGB injections may be needed for treatment?

The number of SGB injections required varies depending on the condition being treated and individual patient responses. Some patients may experience significant relief after a single injection, while others may require 2-4 treatments over time.

7. Am I a Candidate for SGB

Determining whether SGB is the right treatment for your condition is a collaborative process involving Dr. Matta, your mental health care provider (if you have one) and you, the patient. Factors such as your medical history, current health status, and treatment goals will be considered when making this decision.

It’s important to note that Stellate Ganglion Block may not be suitable for everyone, and its effectiveness can vary from person to person. Our team will provide you with detailed information, answer your questions, and guide you through the decision-making process.

Why Choose Meeting Point Health for Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment?

When considering Stellate Ganglion Block treatment in Philadelphia, you can trust Meeting Point Health for several reasons:

1. Experienced Medical Team: Our team of board-certified physicians and healthcare professionals has extensive experience in performing Stellate Ganglion Blocks. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and patient-centered care.
2. State-of-the-Art Facilities: At Meeting Point Health, we maintain modern and well-equipped facilities that ensure the highest level of patient safety and comfort during the procedure.
3. Comprehensive Care: We offer a holistic approach to patient care, considering not only the physical but also the emotional and psychological aspects of your well-being.
4. Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient is unique, and we tailor our treatment plans to meet your specific needs and goals, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
5. Post-Treatment Support: Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond the procedure itself. We provide ongoing support and follow-up care to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

Find Out if Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment Is Right for You

At Meeting Point Health, our Stellate Ganglion Block treatment offers hope and relief to patients suffering from a variety of medical conditions. Our experienced medical team is dedicated to delivering safe, effective, and compassionate care to help improve your quality of life. If you are considering Stellate Ganglion Block treatment or would like more information about our services, please contact Meeting Point Health today. We are here to assist you on your journey to better health and well-being.