Stellate ganglion block in perioperative practice: a narrative review.

The stellate ganglion block, also known as the cervicothoracic ganglion block, has traditionally been utilised by chronic pain physicians for managing sympathetic-mediated pathologies, such as chronic regional pain syndrome and hyperhidrosis. However, recent evidence suggests that the SGB, by inhibiting sympathetic outflow, modulating vasodilation and regional perfusion, and attenuating stress and inflammation responses, might serve as a safe and minimally invasive intervention for preventing or treating common conditions observed in surgical patients. Its potential applications include prevention and treatment of perioperative arrhythmias, pain management, and reduction of anaesthetic dosage. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the preclinical evidence related to the stellate ganglion block, describes anatomical considerations relevant to the ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block technique, along with its associated risks and complications, and explores the current clinical evidence on potential perioperative indications.