The effect of stellate ganglion block (SGB) on peripheral facial palsy were studied by comparing the results of electroneuronography (ENoG), palsy score (40-point scoring method) and the period from onset to initial block and recovery. The subjects were 114 patients with Bell's palsy and Hunt syndrome who were treated in our department within 14 days after onset.
Of the 114 patients, 102 patients had a response to ENoG of 5% or greater and 97% among these caces revealed complete recovery. On the other hand, 12 patients had a response of 4% or less of normal and 67% of those showed unsatisfactory recovery of function. In addition, 8 patients had mild to moderate sequela.
In conclusion, excellent therapeutic cure rate of facial palsy was obtained by SGB. More earlier treatment of SGB shortened the period of recovery and diminished the drop of ENoG value. From electrophysiological examination, it was suggested that SGB prevented the progress of the nerve degeneration and accelerated the recovery of injured nerve.
