The Use of Stellate Ganglion Block in the Treatment of Panic/Anxiety Symptoms with Combat-Related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder; Preliminary Results of Long-Term Follow-Up: A Case Series

Objective: Report the successful use of stellate ganglion blocks (SGBs) in two patients experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Background: Successful treatment of PTSD with SGB has been reported previously. A similar protocol was employed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center to treat two soldiers with chronic, combat-related PTSD. Methods: Both patients received a SGB on the right side at C6 level. The patients' PTSD symptoms were evaluated using the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL). The PCL was administered the day prior to treatment, to establish a baseline, and the day after treatment. The PCL was also utilized during follow-up visits to quantify the patient's symptomotology. The SGB was administered by an anesthesiologist and the psychometric tests administered by a psychologist. Results: Both patients experienced immediate, significant and durable relief as measured by the PCL (score minimum 17, maximum 85). In both instances, the pre-treatment score suggested a PTSD diagnosis whereas the post-treatment scores did not. One patient requested repeat treatment after 3 months, and the post-treatment score remained below the PTSD cutoff after 7 additional months of follow-up. Both patients discontinued all antidepressant and antipsychotic medications while maintaining their improved PCL score. Conclusion: Selective blockade of the right stellate ganglion at C6 level is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that may provide durable relief from PTSD symptoms, allowing the safe discontinuation of psychiatric medications.