What is a Ganglion of Impar Block?
A Ganglion of Impar Block is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic pelvic and perineal pain. The ganglion of impar is a bundle of nerves located near the coccyx (tailbone) that transmits pain signals from the pelvic region to the brain. Blocking these nerves can provide significant pain relief.
Conditions Treated
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Perineal pain
- Coccydynia (tailbone pain)
- Rectal pain
- Pain from pelvic cancer
- Vulvodynia
How Does the Procedure Work?
The physician uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) or CT guidance to insert a thin needle near the ganglion of impar. A local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid, is injected to block the pain signals from the affected nerves.
What to Expect
- Pre-Procedure Preparation: Patients may need to stop certain medications and avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
- Procedure: The patient lies on their stomach, and the injection site is cleaned and numbed. The physician guides the needle to the targeted area using imaging technology and administers the injection.
- Post-Procedure Care: Patients may experience mild soreness at the injection site. Pain relief can be immediate and may last for several weeks or longer.
Benefits
- Minimally invasive
- Provides targeted pain relief
- Improves quality of life
- Quick recovery time
- May reduce the need for oral pain medications
Risks and Side Effects
Though rare, possible risks include:
- Temporary soreness at the injection site
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage (very rare)
- Allergic reaction to medication
Is a Ganglion of Impar Block Right for You?
If you’re experiencing chronic pelvic or perineal pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, a ganglion of impar block may provide relief. Our pain management specialists will evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Lone Star – Interventional Pain Management today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how a ganglion of impar block can help relieve your chronic pain.