What is a Ganglion Impar Injection?
A ganglion impar block is a type of injection that eases pain. It’s used for a variety of health problems that cause pain in the lower pelvis and groin.
Your brain sends information to the body through pathways known as nerves. Nerves also receive information from the body and send it to the proper regions of the brain. A ganglion is a place in the body where many nerves intersect. Nerves that communicate some types of pain from the lower pelvis and groin pass through the ganglion impar on their way to the brain.
The ganglion impar sits just in front of your sacrum. The sacrum is the lowest part of the spine. It is just above the tailbone (coccyx). Nerves from some parts of the lower pelvis and groin pass through this ganglion, including nerves from:
- Lower part of the rectum
- Anal region
- Lower part of the urethra
- Vagina and vulva
- Scrotum
- This is the area from the anus to the vagina or base of the testicles.
- Tailbone
Risks of a ganglion impar block?
Ganglion impar block is generally very safe. Some rare risks of the procedure are:
- Damage to nearby organs
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Allergic reaction to the medicine or medicines
If you get a steroid shot, you may have some side effects. These include temporary increases in blood sugar levels for 1 to 2 days, an allergic reaction, and flushing on your face. There is also a risk that the procedure will not ease your pain.
You may not be able to have the procedure if you have a high risk of bleeding. That may also be true if you have an infection in the area of the injection. Your own risk may vary based on your age and any other health problems. Before the procedure, talk with your healthcare provider about all your concerns.
After a Ganglion Impar Block?
Generally, you will be watched for 30 to 60 minutes after the procedure. Make sure someone can drive you home. You should not plan to do anything strenuous or anything that calls for your full attention for the rest of the day.
Ask your healthcare provider about any activity restrictions after the procedure. You should be able to eat and drink normally. Ask if you should resume your normal medicines. Make sure to follow all your healthcare provider’s instructions for care.
It is common to have some pain at the injection site for a few days. Many people feel relief from their pain soon after the procedure. This relief might last a few hours, a few weeks, or longer depending on the medicine used.
Symptoms:
- Severe pain
- Weakness or numbness in the legs
- Changes in bowel or bladder function
- Fever
- Signs of infection at the injection site. These include redness, swelling, and oozing.
Your healthcare provider can tell you more about what you should do and what you can expect after the ganglion impar block. You will need to see your healthcare provider to talk about the effects of the procedure and make a plan for future treatment of your pain.
