A New Target in Traumatic Brain Injury?

A pilot study investigated whether ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block (SGB) could improve cerebral perfusion in patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury. Following SGB application, researchers observed decreased intracranial pressure, increased cerebral perfusion pressure, and improved cerebral oxygenation. Additionally, major cerebral arteries dilated and inflammatory biomarkers including IL-6 and S100B decreased within 24 hours. The proposed mechanism involves temporary blockade of cervical sympathetic outflow, which reduces cerebral vascular tone and allows larger cerebral vessels to dilate without increasing intracranial pressure. The study also suggests a possible anti-inflammatory effect that may help limit secondary brain injury.