Ganglion Impar Block

What is ganglion impar?

Ganglion impar is a sympathetic nerve aggregation which is present in the pelvis in-front of the sacrum bone, this ganglion supplies the structures in the pelvis and perineum.

Why is this block done?

This ganglion is blocked in patients suffering from perineal pain, pelvic pain, pain of male and female genital system, coccygodynia, cervical cancer pain, rectal cancer pain.

How is the procedure done?

This procedure is done in operation theater as a day care procedure. Patient is kept in prone position and under local anesthesia using a fluoroscopic image intensifier a small needle is passed towards the ganglion and medication is delivered to block the ganglion.

How much duration does it take to complete the procedure?

It takes 15 to 20 minutes to finish the procedure. The patient is kept under observation for an hour and discharged.

Complications of the procedure?

As it is done under image intensifier the complications incidence is very less. There are few complications like bleeding, vasovagal attacks, injury to the internal organs, pain during the procedure and intradural and intravascular injection.

Is it a permanent procedure for pain relief? 

This is not a permanent procedure but sometimes by breaking the pain cycle it can give relief for longer period.

Are there any other procedures which will give long lasting pain relief ?

The alternative therapy for permanent pain relief would be the radiofrequency ablation of the ganglion.