Can a Stellate Ganglion Block Protect the Injured Brain?

Traumatic brain injury is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. Secondary brain injury occurring hours to days after trauma is caused by impaired cerebral blood flow, increased intracranial pressure, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction. A pilot study with 20 patients with moderate-to-severe brain injury examined whether ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block (SGB) could improve brain hemodynamics and reduce inflammation. Results showed significant improvements: reduced intracranial pressure, improved cerebral blood flow, increased brain tissue oxygen, and decreased inflammatory markers (IL-6 and S100B) within 24 hours. The procedure was well tolerated with no major adverse effects. Blocking the sympathetic nervous system appears to improve brain conditions by reducing vascular resistance and enhancing blood flow.