Currently there is very little to offer the chronic headache patient. Nearly two thirds of patients discontinue prescription medications due to inadequate relief and side-effects.
What is SPG block?
SPG block stands for sphenopalatine ganglion block. The sphenopalatine ganglion is a collection of nerve cells located just under the tissue lining the back of the nose. By applying a local anesthetic to the area, nerve impulses can be temporarily blocked, providing relief from various types of pain. The patented SphenoCath® is designed to quickly and comfortably deliver medication to the area of the sphenopalatine ganglion.
The SphenoCath Procedure
The SphenoCath procedure involves administering a flexible catheter that delivers Lidocaine to a thin membrane overlying the SPG, sequentially into both nostrils. The patient lies with his/her head tilted back for five minutes as the anesthetic rapidly absorbs across the membrane to block the SPG nerve bundle which results in migraine pain relief.
The minimally invasive, in-clinic procedure is both low risk and effective in patients of all ages (adults and children), as well as pregnant women—with minimal to no side effect.
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Benefits
The SphenoCath procedure for establishing a sphenopalatine ganglion nerve block can provide rapid and significant pain relief to patients who present with intractable migraines that are refractory to prescribed therapies.
- 2 to 5 minute in-office procedure
- Majority of patients experience immediate relief
- Very low risk
- Very high success rates
- Safe for adults and children
The goal with the SphenoCath procedure is to revert patients who are in a severe, intractable migraine cycle back to their baseline pattern.
Will it hurt?
The small, soft SphenoCath® is inserted into the nose, but the procedure is not painful when performed correctly. The patented SphenoCath® uses no needles and is designed to be comfortable and safe for patients. Some patients experience a minor discomfort.
The risks of using the SphenoCath® include irritation to nasal cavity or mucosa, nose bleeding; and/or mild pain.
What Can You Expect
In as little as a few minutes, the new SphenoCath® device and procedure for administering a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block provides most patients with immediate relief of headache pain with a simple, gentle, comfortable in-office procedure.
The duration of pain relief varies by patient; many experience immediate relief and others sustained relief. The treatment plan involves adjusting a patient's daily prophylactic or as-needed medication regimens.
For your convenience, our office is open 6 days a week. While we encourage you to make an appointment, walk-ins are also welcome. To schedule your appointment, please call (210) 544-5715 or click here to request an appointment online.
Our Health & Wellness Clinic provides a wide range of services dedicated to meeting the health care needs of families – from adolescents to adults.
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