Blockade of the stellate ganglion

Blockade of the stellate ganglion

The stellate ganglion is a bundle of nerves in the neck that lies flat next to the Adam’s apple. This bundle of nerves is responsible for involuntary processes in the arm, such as the regulation of the blood supply, sweating, hair growth, nail growth, and pain signals. By temporarily numbing the stellate ganglion we try to gain influence on these processes. In a trial blockade of the stellate ganglion, the anesthesiologist, under fluoroscopy inserts a needle into the neck beside the Adam’s apple. Contrast dye is injected, so the doctor can check the position of the needle, then the anesthesia is administered. The effect of the treatment remains for a few hours. With good results the test blockade can be repeated, or it may be beneficial to apply a permanent blockade with warmth or pulsed RF lesion. The effect is a reduction of pain and improved blood flow of the hand, causing it to get warm. The effect can usually be assessed immediately.