Stellate Ganglion Block for Post-COVID Syndrome

(STAR-CO Trial)

Overseen By Éva Mathieu, Ph.D

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec

Must be taking: Fatigue, cognition medications

Must not be taking: Anticoagulants

Disqualifiers: Myalgic encephalomyelitis, fibromyalgia, others

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: 1

Duration: 1 day

40 Participants Needed

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This single-center, randomized, controlled, single-blind clinical trial evaluates whether a stellate ganglion block (SGB) using bupivacaine can improve persistent symptoms in adults with long COVID. Participants are assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either an ultrasound-guided right-sided SGB or a placebo saline injection delivered to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. After the intervention, participants are followed for 26 weeks with scheduled evaluations that include symptom questionnaires and functional tests.

The study assesses changes in functional status, fatigue, cognitive complaints, quality of life, dyspnea, lower-limb endurance, and orthostatic tolerance over time. Safety is monitored throughout all follow-up visits. Approximately 40 participants meeting predefined eligibility criteria will be enrolled. This trial seeks to determine whether a single stellate ganglion block has an effect on persistent long-COVID symptoms compared with placebo.The results will help determine the therapeutic value of SGB in the management of long COVID and inform future research and clinical practice.

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for adults with long COVID who still have symptoms like fatigue and breathing problems. They'll be randomly chosen to get either a nerve block injection or a fake (placebo) shot. About 40 people will join, but not those with certain health conditions that could interfere.

Inclusion Criteria

I have had trouble breathing for at least 12 weeks after an infection.

My health has been significantly affected by COVID-19.

I can read and understand French.

Exclusion Criteria

I have glaucoma.

Known hypersensitivity to bupivacaine

Any condition that, in the judgment of the medical investigator, makes the patient not a candidate for the proposed treatment

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive either a stellate ganglion block with bupivacaine or a placebo saline injection

1 day

1 visit (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment with scheduled evaluations including symptom questionnaires and functional tests

26 weeks

Multiple visits (in-person and virtual)

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Stellate Ganglion Block

Trial Overview

The study tests if a stellate ganglion block (SGB), which is an injection near the neck, can help reduce long COVID symptoms compared to a placebo saline shot. Participants are followed for half a year to see changes in their health and abilities.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Stellate Ganglion Block with Bupivacaine Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Participant receives a right-sided stellate ganglion block under ultrasound guidance, using bupivacaine, performed by an anesthesiologist.

Group II: Placebo Neck Injection Placebo Group 1 Intervention

Participant receives a saline injection into the sternocleidomastoid muscle under the same conditions.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec

Lead Sponsor