Ganglion Impar Block

Overview

The Ganglion of Impar is located at the meeting point of the two sides of the pelvic sympathetic nerves, at the junction between the sacrum and the coccyx. A Ganglion of Impar Block involves injecting a local anesthetic and steroid around the nerves that supply the coccyx (or tailbone) area.

Procedure

In the treatment room, a small needle (cannula) may be placed in the back of your hand to allow the doctor to give you sedation if necessary. Once you are lying in the correct position, the doctor will clean the area with an antiseptic solution, which can feel very cold. Local anesthetic and steroids are then injected into the area, which may briefly cause some discomfort, but the area will soon go numb.

After the injection, you will be taken to the recovery area where the nursing staff will observe you. You may feel a little drowsy and wish to sleep. You will remain lying down for 30 minutes and then be assisted to sit up. We will offer you some light refreshments. Your blood pressure and pulse will be checked frequently. Before you leave, the doctor or nurse will ask a few questions about your pain and any effects that the injection may have had.

What to expect afterwards

• You may experience rapid relief of your pain due to the local anesthetic. However, it could take several days before the steroid becomes effective.
• Continue taking your regular painkillers as normal.
• If this injection relieves your pain, remember that it is not a cure. Avoid strenuous activities immediately, but gradually increase your activity level.
• Engage in simple activities like daily walks or swimming to improve your muscle tone. The best approach is to increase your activity level slowly.