Poststroke bulbar palsy often leads to severe dysphagia, which significantly impacts a patient\'s survival and quality of life. Recent clinical evidence suggests that stellate ganglion block stroke therapy may provide a transformative approach to rehabilitation. By modulating the autonomic nervous system, this procedure aims to restore neurological control over swallowing muscles and enhance cerebral perfusion.

A double-blind placebo-controlled trial conducted in China between 2024 and 2025 evaluated 124 participants suffering from ischemic stroke-induced bulbar palsy. Researchers randomized these patients to receive either ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block (SGB) with lidocaine or a saline placebo. Both groups received routine rehabilitation for ten consecutive days. The study primarily focused on the clinical severity of dysphagia and airway protection mechanisms.

Benefits of Stellate Ganglion Block Stroke Therapy

Following the intervention, the SGB group showed statistically significant improvements compared to the placebo group. Specifically, patients demonstrated better forward and upward movement distances of the hyoid bone. Additionally, researchers observed a reduction in pharyngeal residue and secretion accumulation. These structural improvements directly correlate with a lower risk of aspiration pneumonia. Furthermore, the mean blood flow velocity and internal diameter of the vertebral artery increased significantly within one hour of the first block. This suggests that the procedure rapidly enhances brainstem circulation, which is vital for motor recovery.

The long-term outcomes were equally promising for the treatment group. Follow-up assessments at one and three months post-treatment confirmed that the gains in swallowing function persisted. Moreover, participants in the SGB group reported lower anxiety levels than the control group. Because chronic dysphagia often causes psychological distress, this dual benefit is clinically valuable. Therefore, incorporating ultrasound-guided SGB into standard stroke protocols could optimize recovery trajectories for complex cases.

For medical professionals in India, this technique offers a precise, minimally invasive tool for managing poststroke complications. However, the use of ultrasound guidance remains essential to ensure safety and accuracy. Ultimately, the integration of stellate ganglion block stroke interventions into multidisciplinary care may reduce the burden of long-term disability in stroke survivors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does SGB improve swallowing in stroke patients?

SGB improves swallowing by regulating the sympathetic nervous system and increasing blood flow to the brainstem. This enhanced perfusion supports the recovery of the neural circuits that coordinate the pharyngeal phase of swallowing.

Is ultrasound guidance necessary for this procedure?

Yes, ultrasound guidance is crucial for safety and precision. It allows clinicians to visualize the needle path, avoiding major vessels and the thyroid gland while ensuring the anesthetic reaches the stellate ganglion accurately.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and should not replace professional clinical judgment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

Zeng H et al. Effects of ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block in poststroke bulbar palsy: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial. BMC Med. 2026 Mar 04. doi: 10.1186/s12916-026-04684-4. PMID: 41782152.

Sun L, Wu G, Zhou Y, et al. Prospective study on ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block improves cerebral blood flow in patients with stroke. Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases. 2024;33(4):107593. doi:10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2024.107593.

Goyal S, Kumar A, Kantha M, et al. Ultrasound-guided Stellate Ganglion Block for Upper Extremity Phantom Limb Pain - A Case Series. Indian Journal of Pain. 2024. [Epub].