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        New Message Board Archives >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies 2002 >> Going for Occipital Nerve Block
        
(Message started by: notseinfeld on Sep 25^th, 2002, 11:55pm)

Title: Going for Occipital Nerve Block
Post by notseinfeld on Sep 25^th, 2002, 11:55pm

since my frustration level, anxiety, blah blah is through the roof. Currently on 500mg Depakot daily with no help thus far. If anything, a slight exaderation of condition is present.

I ruled out Botox as the success stories are scant, at best. However, the Occipital Nerve Block seems to give some relief if only for a short time. (10-66 days)
Thanks, I'll take it!

During this time I'll be able (providing it works) to concentrate w/a clear head on a some kind of restorative path and not be attempting the quick fix via desperation mode.

Finally, had anyone had this procedure and what were your results?

Thanks,
nots

Title: Re: Going for Occipital Nerve Block
Post by Marshall_D on Sep 26^th, 2002, 6:04am

I had this done, probably 3 or 4 times. I was never in a Cluster Cycle when it was done. It was done for Cervical Radiculapathy.

The Anesthesiologist will numb the the back of the head and after it get's numb, he will place a needle with medication into your occipital nerve. (For laymen) The occipital nerve(s) are the 2 bumps on the back of your head, at the point where the slull meets the neck. The anesthesiologist will work on the side that the pain is at.

It is not very painful, however the side of your head, heworked on, will be numb for about a day.

I would make sure, the procedure is done with a Floroscope (SP.), an imaging machine. Which will make sure the anesthesiologist hits the right spot.

I'll tell you though...the two doctor's I had do this told me they probably wouldn't be any help for Cluster's, but if you had 1 to 3 months of relief, I would go for it....

Title: Re: Going for Occipital Nerve Block
Post by notseinfeld on Sep 26^th, 2002, 2:14pm

Thanks for the input Marshall.

One Question: Is the patient 'out' completely or is it a local anesthetic?

Title: Re: Going for Occipital Nerve Block
Post by Marshall_D on Sep 27^th, 2002, 6:14am

They will normally give you something, through an I.V. to relax you. Versed is what was normally given to me. But you are awake, and can refuse the Versed, which just makes you a little relaxed and dopey.

NOTE: Please look at the NEWS-NEWS post. There is now a documented study that an Occipital Block has helped a chronic cluster sufferer for a few days to a few weeks, so definitely go for it....