The Sphenopalatine Ganglion: Anatomy, Pathophysiology, and Therapeutic Targeting in Headache

2015188 citationsReview

Authors

Matthew S. Robbins · Montefiore Medical Center

Carrie E. Robertson · Mayo Clinic in Arizona

Eugene D. Kaplan · Optimum Therapeutics (United States)

Jessica Ailani · MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

Larry Charleston · VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System

Deena E. Kuruvilla · Yale University

Andrew Blumenfeld

Abstract

The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) has attracted the interest of practitioners treating head and face pain for over a century because of its anatomical connections and role in the trigemino-autonomic reflex. In this review, we discuss the anatomy of the SPG, as well as what is known about its role in the pathophysiology of headache disorders, including cluster headache and migraine. We then address various therapies that target the SPG, including intranasal medication delivery, new SPG blocking catheter devices, neurostimulation, chemical neurolysis, and ablation procedures.

Topics & Keywords

Migraine and Headache Studies Trigeminal Neuralgia and Treatments Ophthalmology and Eye Disorders

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Good health and well-being

Publication Details

Published in: Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain

Volume 56, Issue 2, pp. 240-258

DOI: 10.1111/head.12729

Field-Weighted Citation Impact: 6.94