Sphenopalatine ganglion block for postdural puncture headache

The Sphenopalatine Ganglion: Anatomy, Pathophysiology, and Therapeutic Targeting in Headache

“…Intranasal lidocaine has been more commonly used to block the SPG, due to its more favorable safety profile, and the risk of addiction associated with cocaine use. SPG blockade has also been used to treat migraine and other headache disorders, with some success …”

“…Cohen et al have published two letters to the editor detailing their experience treating 32 obstetric patients with postdural puncture headache with SPG block . Approximately 69% of their patients found this treatment to be effective, avoiding the need for an epidural blood patch.…”

Hemicrania continua may respond to repetitive sphenopalatine ganglion block: A case report

“…SPG block has been used for the treatment of migraine, with some evidence for efficacy . In addition, there are anecdotal reports for the efficacy of this treatment in patients with some secondary headaches (eg, post‐dural puncture headache, post‐traumatic headache, and post‐herpetic neuralgia) . Interestingly, however, data as to the efficacy of SPG block in HC are scarce.…”

Topical Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block Compared With Epidural Blood Patch for Postdural Puncture Headache Management in Postpartum Patients

“…9 Several small case series and retrospective studies have demonstrated this to be an effective treatment for PDPH in obstetric patients. [10][11][12] There have been no reports of serious complications from this procedure. 8 At our institution, we have had great success with treating tension headaches, migraines, neck and low back spasm, and PDPH with SPGB.…”