Ambulatory Procedure Center

Stellate

What Is It?

An injection of a local anesthetic which is given into an area of the neck where the nerves that control circulation are located.

How Do I Prepare?

  • Eat a light meal prior to your procedure.
  • Shower thoroughly before coming in for your procedure.
  • Discuss with your doctor what medications you should take.
  • If you are taking medication to thin your blood (e.g., Coumadin, Warfarin, Plavix, or aspirin), you should check with your doctor about stopping these medications before this procedure.
  • Medications that your doctor has instructed you to take can be taken with a small amount of water.
  • Be sure to arrange transportation. Someone must stay with you at the hospital until discharge and drive you home. Transportation will be verified before the procedure. You may use a taxi cab for your transportation only if you have a person accompanying you other than the taxi cab driver. Your procedure may be cancelled if these arrangements are not made.

What Happens During the Procedure?

  • Consent is signed.
  • An injection is done.
  • An ice pack will be applied to the injection site.
  • The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes.
  • Recovery time is 45 minutes.
  • You will not be allowed to eat or drink for 2 hours after the procedure.