Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block Versus Occiptal Nerve Block in Treatment of Post Dural Puncture Headache

The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) is an extra-cranial neural structure located in the pterygopalatine fossa that has both sympathetic and parasympathetic components as well as somatic sensory roots. The trans-nasal approach is a low risk, noninvasive technique that is easily performed and could potentially be beneficial in the treatment of PDPH through blocking the parasympathetic flow to the cerebral vasculature through the sphenopalatine ganglion which will allow the cerebral vessels to return to normal diameter and thus relieve the headache.

The greater occipital nerve contains sensory fibers from C2 and C3 segments of medulla spinals. It arises from the dorsal ramus of C2 segment, contains a thin branch from C3 segment, and innerves the medial aspect of posterior scalp up to the anterior aspect of vertex. Greater occipital nerve block (GONB) inhibits the pain sensation of this region.

There is some evidence to suggest the effectiveness of GONB in the management of PDPH. Nowadays, guidelines for the management of PDPH were modified and included GONB as a part of standard management of PDPH.

• Dexamethasone possess potent antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive actions by inhibiting cytokine-mediated pathways.
• Many providers believe that the local anesthetic produces the rapid onset of headache relief, like an abortive agent, and that the locally acting steroid produces the preventive like action of up to 6 weeks.

Inclusion criteria

ASA I-II Patients undergoing elective cesarean section requiring spinal anesthesia, who developed PDPH during hospitalization or within days of the intrathecal block.

Exclusion criteria

• Patient refusal.
• Any contraindication to regional block (coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy).
• Local scalp infection.
• Nasal polyp, trauma, septal deviation or any nasal pathology.
• Allergy to local anesthetics.
• Pregnancy induced hypertension.
• History of major psychiatric disorders.
• Chronic headache.
• Substance abuse.
• Current opioid use.