Sphenopalatine Ganglion (SPG) Nerve Block
(A Non-Surgical Option for Facial Pain and Chronic Headaches)
Overview
The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) is a group of nerve cells located behind the nose that plays a key role in pain transmission for certain headache and facial pain syndromes. A sphenopalatine ganglion block involves administering medication to this nerve cluster to reduce inflammation and interrupt pain signals.
At Restore Spine and Pain, this is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure that offers relief without the need for surgery or sedation.
Conditions Treated
- Cluster headaches
- Migraine headaches
- Atypical facial pain
- Chronic headaches following trauma
- Facial pain related to auto or work-related injuries
What are the risks and side effects?
Risks and side effects are minimal, and serious complications are rare. We take every precaution to ensure your safety. Potential risks may include but are not limited to:
- Vasovagal response (fainting or dizziness)
- New or increased pain
- Nasal irritation or mild bleeding
- Throat numbness
- Temporary increase in facial pressure
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Allergic or unexpected drug reaction with minor or major consequences
Ask your provider if you have any concerns. Your physician will review the risks in detail before the procedure to ensure you are fully informed.
Pre-Procedure Information
How Should I Prepare?
- Driver Required: We ask that you arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure.
- Food: You may eat a light meal 1–2 hours prior to the procedure. If sedation is planned, please follow the specific sedation protocol provided by our team.
Medications:
- Continue routine medications unless directed otherwise.
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Blood thinners, Aspirin, NSAIDs, and supplements:
- Inform us in advance if you take blood thinners (e.g., Plavix, Eliquis, Xarelto, Coumadin), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), Aspirin, or supplements that increase bleeding risk.
- Certain medications may need to be stopped for a short period of time before the injection.
- Speak with your prescribing provider to ensure it’s safe to temporarily stop these medications.
- Our team will review your medication list and coordinate with your other providers if needed.
Notify us if:
- You have a fever, infection, or recent illness
- You have started antibiotics or had changes to your medications.
Sedation:
Most procedures can be performed comfortably without sedation. However, if you have anxiety or difficulty lying flat, mild sedation may be offered at the discretion of the physician. Please discuss this with your provider in advance.
Special Instructions for Diabetic Patients:
- Please contact your primary care physician or endocrinologist prior to the procedure for management recommendations.
- Monitor your glucose closely after the injection.
- Report sustained elevations to your managing provider.
Procedure Information
What to Expect:
1. Preparation:
- You will be positioned on the procedure table.
- The skin will be cleaned.
2. Injection Process:
- A needle is guided to targeted nerves and local anesthetic is injected.
Monitoring:
- You will be monitored during the procedure to ensure comfort and safety.
- Most procedures last 10-15 minutes, followed by a brief recovery period on-site.
Post-Procedure Information
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Relief Timeline: You may have immediate response/relief due to local anesthetic use.
- Activity: You may resume light activities the next day; avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. We recommend you return to work the following day.
- Soreness: Temporary soreness at the injection site is common.
- Pain tracking:Keep a log of symptoms over the next 1–2 weeks
If successful, additional injections may be spaced out over time.
Additional Instructions:
- Contact the office for any signs of infection, fever, or worsening pain.
- Attend follow-up as scheduled.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are suffering from facial pain due to nerve irritation or headache disorders, contact Restore Spine and Pain today to find out if this targeted treatment is right for you.