Our Procedure

A ganglion impar block is an injection used to relieve pain in the lower pelvis and groin area caused by various health conditions. This procedure targets the ganglion impar, a cluster of nerves located just in front of the sacrum, which is the lowest part of the spine above the tailbone (coccyx). The ganglion impar serves as a junction for nerves transmitting pain signals from specific pelvic and groin organs to the brain.

You may require a ganglion impar block if you experience pain in the lower pelvic or groin area due to dysfunction or damage to organs such as the rectum, anus, urethra, vagina, vulva, scrotum, or tailbone. This pain might be associated with conditions like vaginal or vulvar cancer, scrotal cancer, rectal or anal cancer, bladder cancer, or other types of pelvic pain. Additionally, this block can be used for diagnostic purposes to identify the source of pain or to treat pain with other medications. Rarely, it might be used to manage excess sweating in the anal region.

While generally safe, rare risks of the procedure include damage to nearby organs, bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions to the injected medications. Steroid injections may temporarily increase blood sugar levels or cause flushing on the face. Additionally, there's a chance that the procedure might not provide pain relief.

Before the procedure, discuss your medical history with your doctor, including any recent infections, fever, or other health issues. Inform them about any diabetes or blood-thinning medications you're taking. You may need to stop certain medications before the procedure. Also, discuss any allergies or past reactions to medications. If you're pregnant, might be pregnant, or have concerns, let your provider know. You might be advised not to eat or drink after midnight on the night before the procedure. Arrangements should be made for someone to drive you home afterward.

During the procedure:

• You lie face down on a procedure table.
• Sedation may be given to help you relax, but you'll likely remain awake.
• Your vital signs are monitored closely.
• The injection area is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
• A needle is inserted near your tailbone under X-ray, CT imaging, or ultrasound guidance.
• Contrast dye may be injected to ensure proper needle placement.
• Medications, such as numbing agents or steroids, are injected into the ganglion impar area.
• You may feel a warm or burning sensation during the injection.

You'll be monitored for 30 to 60 minutes after the procedure, and someone should drive you home. Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day. Any pain at the injection site usually subsides in a few days. Pain relief can vary, lasting from a few hours to longer periods, depending on the medications used.