Somatic blockade of contralateral roots of brachial plexus after a stellate ganglion block

Abstract

The stellate ganglion block is a common procedure performed for management of the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) of the upper limb. Somatic anesthesia of the ipsilateral brachial plexus is a known complication of the stellate ganglion block. We report a case of CRPS of the left upper limb developing somatic blockade of the contralateral brachial plexus following a stellate ganglion block. This case report emphasizes the importance of vigilant monitoring during every procedure, as unusual complications can occur.

Keywords

• Complex regional pain syndrome
• contralateral brachial plexus block
• stellate ganglion block