Stellate Ganglion Block: A Promising Approach for PTSD Relief
Dr. Danish and the team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry are committed to staying informed about the latest advancements in PTSD treatments, such as the stellate ganglion block (SGB). Although SGB is a surgical procedure that we do not provide directly, we recognize its potential in alleviating PTSD symptoms by targeting the sympathetic nervous system.
By keeping abreast of its efficacy and developments, we ensure that we can refer patients to specialized surgical centers when appropriate. This approach is part of our dedication to offering comprehensive care plans that incorporate the most effective treatments available, even if they require collaboration with external specialists.
What is a Stellate Ganglion Block
The stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a procedure in which a long-acting local anesthetic is injected near the stellate ganglion, a collection of sympathetic nerves located in the neck. The procedure is typically performed using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to ensure precise placement of the needle and minimize complications. The patient is positioned with the head slightly extended and turned away from the side of the injection, and the anesthetic is administered at the C6 or C7 vertebral level, using anatomical landmarks such as the Chassaignac tubercle and the carotid artery for guidance.
Efficacy of Stellate Ganglion Block
Research has shown that SGB can lead to rapid clinical improvement in PTSD symptoms, with some studies reporting a 70% to 75% success rate in symptom reduction. A multisite randomized clinical trial demonstrated the effectiveness of SGB, with significant improvements in PTSD symptoms compared to a sham procedure. Despite these promising results, SGB is not yet an established treatment, and its long-term efficacy remains under investigation.
Potential Side Effects
While SGB is generally considered safe, potential side effects include temporary pain at the injection site, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and, in rare cases, more serious complications such as nerve damage. Most reported side effects are mild and resolve without intervention, but patients should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.
Current Research and Considerations
Ongoing studies continue to explore the efficacy and safety of SGB for PTSD. The procedure is sometimes used in conjunction with traditional PTSD treatments, such as psychotherapy and medication, to enhance overall outcomes. It is particularly considered for patients who have not responded to conventional therapies, offering an alternative pathway to symptom relief.
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and his team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we take pride in our ability to practice the most subtle nuances of psychiatry, which is an inherently subjective field full of misdiagnoses and lazy and inaccurate assessment techniques. We want to provide the level of care we would want for our own family members. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for PTSD or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
For more on this topic and related subjects, check out these blogs by Dr. Danish:
This set of blogs looks at various mental health disorders that TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation treats (one of which is PTSD).
This set of blogs looks at Ketamine and the many symptoms it can benefit, including PTSD.
Disclaimer:
Dr. Danish creates these handouts based on research, but they are not meant to be 100% comprehensive. Patients are encouraged to discuss the ideas brought up in the document with their provider. For full lists of side effects on medications and supplements, please refer to resources like drugs.com and webmd.com, as these lists are always expanding with more research occurring.
