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Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block

A few small structures (ganglia and associated nerves) located near the middle of the head are primarily responsible for dilation or constriction of blood vessels. Irritation within these structures is one of the primary causes of recurrent headaches (migraine, cluster, etc.). A sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) block involves the safe delivery of anesthetic to the back of the nasal cavity via the nostril. Delivery of anesthetic to this location helps evaluate the source of head or facial pain, and often eliminates or significantly decreases pain.

An SPG block is a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure that can be effective when other treatments have failed. It can be repeated in 1-2-week intervals, if necessary. Please note that an SPG block cannot be performed if you have an allergy to local anesthetic or an active respiratory infection (nasal congestion).

Patients receiving pain management treatments who need language interpretation or prefer to communicate in a language other than English are encouraged to bring a family member or friend to their appointment to assist with translation. This ensures that patients fully understand the procedure and necessary instructions. If the patient is unable to comprehend the instructions, the appointment may need to be rescheduled. As Mayfair does not provide language interpreters, it is essential for patients to make these arrangements in advance.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY PROCEDURE?

  • Take all prescribed medications (including anticoagulation medication) as directed before, during, and after the procedure.
  • You may experience discomfort or dizziness, so please have someone accompany you on the day of your test. If this is your first SPG, you are required to have someone else drive you home.
  • You will need to purchase Drixoral (decongestant spray) and bring it with you to your procedure. It must be the no-drip, original, unscented version. It is available over the counter. We will explain how to use it when you arrive for your appointment. Our booking coordinators will discuss this with you.
  • If you are currently taking antibiotics, you will need to wait two days after your last dose to be able to have your injection done.
  • Please drink water throughout the day of your appointment and make sure you are well hydrated prior to the procedure. Bring a water bottle with you to your appointment.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to fill out a consent form.
  • Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
  • Wear comfortable clothes.
  • Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY PROCEDURE?

  • A team member will go over the consent form, explain procedure details, and answer any questions.
  • We will then escort you to our treatment suite where you will meet the radiologist or anesthesiologist who will perform your exam.
  • After the location is confirmed with X-ray guidance, the long-lasting freezing will be injected using a thin, flexible catheter.
  • You will be assessed post-injection by our team and, if there are no concerns, you will be free to leave.

POST-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS

  • First 24 hours: 
    • No exercise or strenuous activity, including sexual activity for 24 hours post procedure.
    • Drink large amounts of fluids.
    • Keep a headache or pain diary after your procedure.
    • After your injection, you may have a bitter taste in your mouth due to the local anesthetic. You may also experience temporary dizziness or light-headedness; low blood pressure; numbness of the nose, throat and lips; a mildly bloody nose, tearing or facial flushing; and, rarely, a temporary increase in pain, nasal congestion, or nasal infection.
  • Follow-up with your referring doctor as needed.

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?

  • Results can vary. Some patients experience some pain relief immediately.
  • An SPG block can provide relief from days to months. If this procedure does not help relieve your symptoms, then you may need further evaluation by your referring doctor.
  • Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.

PLEASE NOTE:

Please bring the following to your appointment: a valid government-issued ID, your provincial health card, and your exam requisition (if you have received one).

FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Please ensure that you bring your requisition with you to your appointment.

DURATION

20-30 minutes

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does the injection take to work?
Results can vary. Some patients experience some pain relief immediately.
How long will the injection last?
An SPG block can provide relief from days to months. If this procedure does not help relieve your symptoms, then you may need further evaluation by your referring doctor.
How many injections can I have and how often?
There is no limitation as to how often you can have this procedure done.
What are the side effects?
After your injection, you may have a bitter taste in your mouth due to the local anesthetic. You may also experience temporary dizziness or light-headedness; low blood pressure; numbness of the nose, throat and lips; a mildly bloody nose, tearing or facial flushing; and, rarely, a temporary increase in pain, nasal congestion, or nasal infection.
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What We Do

At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.

At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.

We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:

  • MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight

  • Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health

  • Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care

  • Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life

But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.

We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.

Who We Are.

To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.

But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.

At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

The Inside Story

WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace

At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.

Key Points:

  • Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.

  • Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.

  • Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).

  • Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.

Vision & Mission:

  • Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”

  • Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”