Sphenopalatine ganglion block (1426)

What is a sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block?

The SPG block is a medicine that can help treat headache pain.

How does the SPG block work?

The SPG is a group of nerve cells behind the nose. Some of them carry feelings (like pain) to the brain.  The SPG is linked to the main nerve involved in headaches. 

During an SPG block, numbing medicine is put onto the SPG using a cotton swab.  This medicine works to block or partially block the SPG.  

What happens during the procedure?

• Your child will lay on their back. 
• The provider will put a cotton swab into each nostril. 
• Numbing medicine will flow into the cotton swab from the swab handle that is like a straw. 
• Once the medicine is in place, the cotton swabs will stay in the nose for 5 minutes. 
• After 5 minutes, the cotton swabs will be removed. 
• Ask your nurse about Child Life coming to help you stay relaxed during the procedure.
• Your child will stay on their back for 15 minutes after the cotton swabs are removed. 
• It can take 15 minutes up to a few hours to feel headache improvement.

How will it feel?

It feels like a nose swab used for other tests, like COVID or other test.  You may feel some burning.

What are the potential side effects?

Side effects are rare.  They can happen during or after the procedure.  Many of them are short-term.  They may include:

• Numbness in the throat
• Low blood pressure
• Upset stomach (nausea)
• Nosebleed
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Feeling lightheaded
• Mild discomfort or burning in the nose during the procedure

How long will the block last?

This is different for every child. Some children will get relief for a few hours, while others may see relief for days, weeks or even months.