What to Expect from a Gasserian Ganglion Block

What Should I Expect from This Procedure?

This is usually a diagnostic procedure that allows us to pinpoint, more accurately, the location of the origin of your pain syndrome. Sometimes repeated gasserian ganglion blocks can be used to decrease certain types of facial pain syndromes. In general, nerve killing procedures are not performed or recommended except in certain instances of patients with cancer pain. Typically, local anesthetic is used to block the nerves that go to your pain.

You might have some numbness of your face and gums, and decreased ability to chew. This might last between six to twelve hours. When the numbness resolves, your pain might return or you might have pain control that extends beyond the duration of the local anesthetic. It will be important for you to tell your pain management doctor about your pain control, following the block.

How to prepare

During the procedure

After the procedure