Abstract

Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is commonly used to reduce sympathetically mediated, upper extremity pain syndromes of various etiologies. However, the efficacy of SGB in mitigating solid thalamic malignancy induced upper extremity and facial pain is unknown. We present two patients with severe, medication-resistant upper extremity and facial pain due to glioblastoma multiform involving the contralateral thalamus. Both patients had significant pain relief and satisfaction following ultrasound-guided SGB performed on the symptomatic side.
Ultrasound-guided SGB may be considered as an adjunct therapy in patients with persistent upper extremity and facial pain due to thalamic cancer, before pursuing invasive intracranial pain reduction surgeries.

Keywords: Thalamic cancer pain; Stellate ganglion block; Ultrasound guidance; Glioblastoma multiform