Investigating the effects of stellate ganglion block on retinal blood flow
Official title: Effect of the Stellate Ganglion Block on the Retinal Microcirculation: A Pilot Study
Run by University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center · NCT06797752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a special nerve block used for pain relief can improve blood flow in the eyes of patients with severe brain injuries.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dallas, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 7, 2024 |
| Main results expected | October 7, 2026 |
| Study ends | October 7, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | November 19, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06797752 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are receiving stellate ganglion nerve blocks for approved indications.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, non-English speaking, or have physical limitations preventing them from participating in the OCTA imaging will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study examines the impact of stellate ganglion nerve blocks on retinal microcirculation in patients with severe brain injuries, such as subarachnoid and intracerebral hemorrhages. The study aims to understand how this regional anesthesia technique, typically used for pain management, may influence cerebral sympathetic activity and potentially reduce vasospasm. Patients receiving the nerve block as part of their standard care will undergo OCTA scans to assess changes in their retinal microcirculation. The findings could provide insights into the broader implications of sympathetic nervous system modulation in critical neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for patients with severe brain injuries by mitigating secondary brain damage.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of stellate ganglion blocks has shown promise in reducing sympathetic activity, this specific application in retinal microcirculation is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older * Patients receiving the stellate ganglion nerve block for an approved indication, e.g. complex regional pain syndrome Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Non-English speaking * Temporary or permanent physical limitation that renders the patient unable to sit up and look inside OCTA device
Where it's running
-
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Noah Jouett, DO, PhD — University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Noah Jouett, DO, PhD
- Email: noah.jouett@utsouthwestern.edu
- Phone: 214-645-7011
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.