HEADACHE TREATMENT

SphenoCath®, a minimally invasive procedure offers immediate relief for most patients with chronic and episodic migraine, cluster headache, chronic daily headache and for other facial pain and headache syndromes. The SphenoCath® device is a soft, flexible catheter that delivers pain-relieving medication inside the nasal passageway with maximum patient comfort.

SphenoCath® Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block Benefits

  • No Needles. No Swabs.
  • 2 to 5 minute in-office procedure
  • Majority of patients experience immediate relief
  • Very high success rate
  • Safe for adults and children
  • Very low risk and side effects

SPG block stands for sphenopalatine ganglion block. The sphenopalatine ganglion is a collection of nerve cells located just under the tissue lining the back of the nose. By applying a local anesthetic to the area, nerve impulses can be temporarily blocked, providing relief from various types of pain. The SphenoCath® is designed to quickly and comfortably deliver medication to the area of the sphenopalatine ganglion.

The duration of pain relief is different for every patient. Oftentimes this treatment can help patients’ bodies naturally combat the triggers of their pain (e.g., allergies, hormones, etc.) by “resetting” their sphenopalatine ganglion. Some patients require only one treatment. Other patients experience relief after the first treatment for one or two weeks, then require additional treatments. For these patients, the length of time between treatments typically increases to four weeks, and eventually longer.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any side effects to the procedure?

Normally, there are no serious side effects associated with the SphenoCath® treatment. Common reactions may include eye watering and a feeling of tightness in the face.

How is SphenoCath® more accurate than an SPG block?

Because the device extends the reach of its soft applicator tip over the middle turbinate and rests directly above the sphenopalatine ganglion, SphenoCath® is able to drip medication directly onto the sphenopalatine ganglion. This highly-targeted positioning means that medication reaches the area directly rather than in a periphery spray-type application as with other SPG blocks.

Are there any precautions with SphenoCath® ? 

  • If nasal mucosa appears irritated or swollen, or if patient experiences significant pain, immediately discontinue using the SphenoCath® Applicator.
  • Avoid excessive or unnecessary contact with nasal mucosa.
  • Do not force the tip of the SphenoCath® applicator into the nose.

The SphenoCath® Procedure

During SphenoCath® Procedure: Patients lie flat. The small catheter is inserted into the patient’s nose, and pain medication (Lidocaine) is delivered through it. The procedure is not painful when performed correctly, although some patients experience a minor discomfort when the small, soft SphenoCath® is inserted into the nose.

After the SphenoCath® Procedure: Patients should remain in a flat or reclined position for 10-15 minutes afterward to maximize the benefit of the procedure. Patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately.