Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment for PTSD

Transforming PTSD Treatment: Discover Stellate Ganglion Block

Welcome to a new horizon in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). At our clinic, we are proud to offer the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) – a groundbreaking approach for those who have bravely battled PTSD symptoms without finding relief through conventional methods. Let's explore how SGB can offer you a new path to healing.

What is Stellate Ganglion Block?

The Stellate Ganglion Block is an innovative outpatient medical procedure targeting the stellate ganglion, a nerve cluster in the neck part of the sympathetic nervous system. By administering a local anesthetic to these nerves, SGB aims to 'reset' the system responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, which is often in overdrive in individuals with PTSD.

The Science Behind SGB

While the precise mechanisms are still being studied, it's believed that SGB reduces the symptoms of hyperarousal—such as anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, hypervigilance, and flashbacks—by calming the overactive sympathetic nervous system. This provides patients with a unique opportunity for symptom relief, potentially opening the doors to a more peaceful life. There are 15 original studies published since 2008 in the peer-reviewed medical literature documenting SGB’s successful treatment of PTSD symptoms. In November 2019, a large multi-center, randomized clinical trial was published in JAMA Psychiatry demonstrating twice the effect of SGB over a sham (placebo) procedure. Now with “gold standard” Level 1 evidence supporting SGB, many clinicians believe this procedure should be incorporated into standard PTSD care.

Your SGB Specialist: Dr. Eugene Lipov

Dr. Eugene Lipov is a highly respected figure in the field of pain management, particularly renowned for his pioneering work with the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He has performed over 3000 SGB’s for PTSD and his success rates are as high as 80% following both right and left sided SGB injections. His educational background includes a medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, followed by residency training in anesthesiology and interventional pain management. He has dedicated a significant portion of his career to exploring innovative treatments for chronic pain and PTSD, leading him to the forefront of SGB research and application. In the mid-2000s, Dr. Lipov began to investigate the potential of SGB as a treatment for PTSD, based on its historical use for managing pain. He hypothesized that the procedure, which involves the injection of a local anesthetic agent into the stellate ganglion nerve bundle in the neck, could alleviate the symptoms of PTSD by 'resetting' the sympathetic nervous system. This could theoretically reduce the heightened state of alertness and anxiety characteristic of PTSD. Dr. Lipov has published numerous articles in medical journals, sharing his findings and contributing valuable knowledge to the field of mental health treatment. Dr. Lipov's commitment to innovation in pain management and PTSD treatment has earned him recognition as a leader in his field. Through his work, Dr. Lipov not only provides hope to those living with PTSD but also contributes to the broader understanding of how best to treat this challenging condition.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Performed under ultrasound guidance for precision, SGB is a quick outpatient procedure. You'll be awake, and Dr. Lipov will administer a small injection near your neck's stellate ganglion in two spots to ensure adequate blockade. Depending on the results, you may also need to have the other side injected within a day or so. If you choose, our anesthesia team can provide IV sedation for comfort during the procedure. Taking about 10 to 30 minutes, the procedure is designed to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Why Consider SGB for PTSD?

Innovative Treatment: For those who have not found success with traditional therapies, SGB represents a cutting-edge option.

Rapid Symptom Relief: Many patients report significant improvements in their PTSD symptoms, with effects noticeable immediately or very soon after the procedure.

Safety and Efficacy: SGB is considered safe, with minimal and typically temporary side effects, making it a viable option for many.

Understanding the Risks and Benefits

While the SGB has shown promise, we believe in informed decision-making. Our team will discuss the potential benefits and risks, ensuring you have all the information needed to make the best choice for your health and well-being. Downtime is typically just a few hours.

A Supportive Environment

Healing from PTSD is a journey, and we're here to provide a supportive, understanding environment. Whether it's SGB or another treatment path, our goal is to help you find peace and improve your quality of life. The SGB can also be combined with ketamine infusions for complex PTSD (cPTSD).

Take the Next Step

If you're exploring treatment options for PTSD and are curious about whether SGB might be right for you, we invite you to reach out. Schedule a consultation with our experts today and take the first step towards reclaiming your life from PTSD.

You deserve the best care possible, and at our clinic, we're committed to offering innovative treatments like the Stellate Ganglion Block to help you on your journey to recovery.