Case Series: Cancer-Related Facial Pain Treated with Stellate Ganglion Block
Raheleh Rahimi Darabad, Jerry P. Kalangara, Anna Woodbury
Abstract
Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is believed to modify the pathologic sympathetic pain response and has been commonly used to treat complex regional pain syndrome. We report successful treatment of cancer-related facial pain with SGB in three patients, suggesting a possible sympathetic pain-related mechanism. All patients exhibited clinically significant improvement of pain 12 weeks following the procedure. SGB should be considered a palliative pain treatment option in cancer-related facial pain.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineComplex regional pain syndromeCancer painStellate ganglionIntractable painAnesthesiaPain syndromeCancerFacial painSurgeryInternal medicineAlternative medicinePathologyPain Management and TreatmentSympathectomy and Hyperhidrosis TreatmentsMyofascial pain diagnosis and treatment