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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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Radiologist

Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.

Administration

Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.

Patient Experience Coordinator

Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.

CT Technologist

Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.

MRI Technologist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care.  They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.

Our Culture

We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:

  • We recognize each other for our contributions – big and small.
  • We focus on teamwork and personal accountability to achieve our goals.
  • When we commit to deadlines, we complete the work as promised, by when we promised. If we realize we can’t keep our commitments, we collaborate to find new deadlines well in advance of the original ones.
  • We feel safe to speak up responsibly. That means we freely share what’s on our minds in a way that is respectful and supports the success of the organization.
  • We commit to our patients and their needs. We show up each day ready to live our vision, mission, and values.
  • We challenge each other to grow and develop our skills and we support each other to do so.
  • Above all, we go the extra mile to support our patients and colleagues. 

Our Values.

Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:

EXCELLENCE

We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.

CURIOSITY

We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.

PASSION

We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.

COLLABORATION

Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.

SERVICE

We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.

Start with us.

Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.

Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.

OUR TEAMS

We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.

OUR VISION

We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.

We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.

We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.