Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 21 to 65 Women only

Using Stellate Ganglion Block to Prevent Depression After Mastectomy

Official title: Preemptive Efficacy of Stellate Ganglion Block for Prevention of Post Mastectomy Depression

Run by Mansoura University · NCT06263907 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether a special nerve block can help prevent depression and pain in women who are having surgery for breast cancer.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages21 Years to 65 Years
SexWomen only
Enrollment140 (estimated)
SponsorMansoura University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Al Mansurah)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 1, 2024
Main results expectedNovember 30, 2027
Study endsDecember 30, 2028
Registry record updatedFebruary 17, 2026
Trial IDNCT06263907 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are female patients aged 18 to 65 who are scheduled for unilateral modified radical mastectomy and have no significant comorbidities.

Probably not a fit

Patients with a history of psychotic disorders or those who have a Beck Depression Inventory score greater than 13 may 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 clinical trial investigates the use of stellate ganglion block as a preventive measure against post-mastectomy depression in female breast cancer patients. The study focuses on patients undergoing unilateral modified radical mastectomy, aiming to reduce the incidence of chronic pain and depression that can follow this surgery. By administering a stellate ganglion block, the trial seeks to evaluate its effectiveness in alleviating psychological distress and pain associated with the surgical procedure. The approach is based on previous applications of this technique in treating PTSD and depression symptoms.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce the rates of depression and chronic pain in women following mastectomy.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results using stellate ganglion block for treating PTSD and depression, suggesting potential efficacy in this novel application.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female patients
* Age ranging from 18 to 65 years
* American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) no more than II
* Had unilateral cancer breast
* Scheduled to do unilateral modified radical mastectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant female
* Existing Horner syndrome
* Had any neuromuscular disease
* Had allergy to local anesthetics
* History of use of analgesics
* Had any deformity or a previous surgery in the neck or ipsilateral arm or breast
* Had any contraindication to the procedure (coagulation disorders, local infection, sepsis)
* Had any contraindication to the sympathetic blockade (decompensate cardiopulmonary or hemodynamic disorders)
* History of psychotic disorder including depression, bipolar disorder or personality disorder
* Patient with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score more than 13

Where it's running

  • Maha
    Al Mansurah, Egypt
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.