What is this procedure?
The sphenopalatine ganglion participates in headache and facial pain pathways.
When might it be considered?
Selected headache disorders or facial pain, based on a clinician's diagnosis and assessment. Your physician will determine whether this approach is appropriate and discuss alternatives, including non-procedural care.
What to expect
One approach delivers local anesthetic through the nose toward the nerve cluster. Other techniques differ. Your clinician reviews your history, medications, allergies, and any relevant tests. The team explains the procedure and obtains your consent. Positioning, skin preparation, local numbing, and imaging guidance may be part of the visit, depending on the procedure.
Tell your care team about pregnancy, infection, medication allergies, or blood-thinning medicines. Do not stop or change medicines without instructions from the clinician managing them.
Potential benefits
Some patients obtain temporary relief; the role of repeat treatment depends on the diagnosis and response. Benefit and duration vary; some patients experience little or no improvement. An injection is one possible part of a broader care plan.
Possible risks & side effects
Temporary throat numbness, nausea or low blood pressure can occur. Risks depend on how the block is delivered and the medicine used.
This is not a complete list of risks. Your physician should explain the options, limitations, and consent information specific to your planned procedure.
Recovery & follow-up
Follow instructions about eating and drinking while numbness persists. Record symptoms and discuss the response at follow-up. Observation and activity instructions depend on the procedure, medication, and your response. Ask whether you need a driver and when you can return to usual activities. Follow your own discharge instructions rather than a general online timeline.
Contact your care team about unexpected or worsening symptoms. Seek urgent medical help for severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or new significant weakness.
Common questions
Does this always involve an injection through the skin?
No. A common approach applies anesthetic through the nose. Your physician will explain the planned technique.
Will this procedure relieve my pain?
It may help selected patients, but improvement is not guaranteed. Your physician will discuss realistic goals based on the suspected source of your pain.
Will I need more than one injection?
The need for further treatment depends on your response, the diagnosis, and safety considerations. There is no automatic course of injections that suits everyone.
How should I prepare?
Ask the team for your specific instructions, including medicines, food and drink, transportation, and what to bring. Do not change your medicines based on this page.
Is this available at Columbia Pain Management?
Contact the office to discuss eligibility and scheduling. Your physician will assess whether a procedure is appropriate for you.
Patient education reference: americanmigrainefoundation.org — patient education.