Using Stellate Ganglion Block to Prevent Depression After Mastectomy

Preemptive Efficacy of Stellate Ganglion Block for Prevention of Post Mastectomy Depression

Not applicable Interventional Mansoura University · NCT06263907

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment140 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 65 Years
SexFemale
SponsorMansoura University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Al Mansurah)
Trial IDNCT06263907 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

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.

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

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Al Mansurah

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions MastectomyPain, AcutePain, Chronic
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.