Stellate Ganglion Block
Stellate Ganglion Block is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure where a small amount of local anesthetic is injected into a bundle of nerves in the neck, known as the stellate ganglion, in order to calm the brain’s “fight or flight” response. SGB can restore a sense of calm and reset the nervous system, and it works synergistically with ketamine therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), psychotherapy, and integration coaching.
Process
Real experiences from patients who found relief and renewed agency through their care at Lucid Therapeutics. Each story reflects a personal journey toward healing, guided by compassionate, evidence-based treatment and ongoing support.
1. Getting Started
Medical Assessment
The process starts with a medical assessment, led by Dr. Remi Drozd. During this session, Dr. Drozd will determine if a stellate ganglion block is an appropriate option for you, based on your unique needs and goals.
2. Procedure Session
30-Minute Procedure Session
The injection procedure for a stellate ganglion block itself takes a few minutes. However, we schedule a 30-minute appointment, providing ample time to ensure comfort, preparation, and to answer any questions.
3. Injection Site
Injection Site and Procedure:
The stellate ganglion block injection is administered into the neck region, specifically between the C6 and C7 vertebrae.
Patients Stories
Real experiences from patients who found relief and renewed agency through their care at Lucid Therapeutics. Each story reflects a personal journey toward healing, guided by compassionate, evidence-based treatment and ongoing support.
FAQs
The stellate ganglion block (SGB) is particularly helpful for PTSD and anxiety. The block is thought to “reset” the body’s stress circuits by calming the amygdala and related brain regions via sympathetic modulation. SGB is also helpful for chronic pain disorders, as well as circulatory and vascular problems, because it improves blood flow and interrupts pain signaling pathways.
The SGB procedure may be mildly uncomfortable, but not painful. The procedure starts by first numbing the area with a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine. During the block itself, some people notice warmth in the area, or slight pressure. Post-procedure, you may experience slight tenderness at the injection site, which can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers or ice packs.
Side effects are minimal and temporary, lasting only a few hours. Side effects may include a hoarse voice; slight difficulty swallowing; eye drooping or redness; temporary paralysis of part of the face, called Horner’s Syndrome; and mild soreness at the injection site. You will be able to go home immediately after your treatment and resume normal activity.
Currently, Stellate Ganglion Blocks are an out-of-pocket expense. The Lucid Care Team can provide cost details and discuss financing options, if needed.
A stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a medical procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic around the stellate ganglion — a cluster of nerves located in the neck, between C6 and C7, which are part of the sympathetic nervous system. This network influences blood flow, pain signals, and the body’s “fight or flight” stress response. The stellate ganglion block procedure temporarily disables the body’s stress response for about ten minutes, which allows a full nervous system reset in the body.
The SBG procedure takes approximately 10 - 15 minutes to complete. Your appointment will be 30 minutes in length, providing ample time to ensure comfort, preparation, and to answer any questions.
Results of the stellate ganglion block can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
SGB treatments are one-off procedures, which means you will only undergo one treatment to start. If needed, Dr. Drozd will discuss additional SGB treatments over an extended period of time, depending on your unique needs.
Get started with our expert mental health & longevity treatments in Santa Barbara
