A Case Report of Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block Relieving Chronic Pain Post-Dental Bone Graft Surgery

Abstract

Chronic orofacial pain, by definition, is a pain that can anatomically extend anywhere between the area just under the orbitomeatal line, anterior to the pinnae, and above the neck. It occurs for 15 days or more per month, lasting four or more hours daily, for at least three months. Chronic orofacial pain, including persistent idiopathic facial pain syndrome, can significantly impact patients' quality of life and pose challenges for effective management. This case report describes a successful transnasal approach in treating a patient with severe oral pain following a bone graft surgery by blocking the sphenopalatine ganglion. The block provided significant pain relief and improved the patient's daily functioning. This minimally invasive treatment option offers an alternative for managing chronic orofacial pain after dental procedures such as bone graft surgery.

Keywords: bone graft; chronic pain; orofacial pain; persistent idiopathic facial pain syndrome; sphenopalatine ganglion block.

Figure 1. Mannequin model of the sphenopalatine ganglion block

The sphenopalatine ganglion applicator on a mannequin model demonstrating that once the patient feels the medication in the back of the throat, the medication has reached the sphenopalatine ganglion (marked with the red star). Image Credits: Danielle Levin, MD.

Figure 2. Setting up the sphenopalatine ganglion block applicator.

Image Credits: Danielle Levin, MD.