Study of Cervicothoracic Sympathetic Block to Treat Long-Term Symptoms After COVID-19 Infection A Placebo-Controlled Trial to Evaluate Safety and Effectiveness

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of cervicothoracic sympathetic chain block CSB on Post-COVID Condition PCC, a condition affecting about 2.1 million Canadians with symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, palpitations, and orthostatic intolerance. PCC involves abnormal autonomic nervous system function driven by immune-mediated sympathetic overactivity and persistent inflammation, which contributes to ongoing symptoms. Current treatments have limited success, and this study aims to rigorously evaluate CSBs efficacy in reducing these symptoms in a controlled trial setting. The study compares two groups one receiving CSB on both sides using up to 5 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine with epinephrine, and a sham group receiving injections of normal saline. Both groups will be monitored for at least 30 minutes after injections to observe effects and side effects. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial will assess the benefits and duration of symptom relief from CSB in PCC patients. Participants will undergo assessments including symptom questionnaires focusing on cardiac dysautonomia-related symptoms over four weeks. The study will monitor participants for safety and effectiveness throughout the trial. Researchers will measure changes in autonomic symptoms to determine the impact of CSB treatment. The study involves adults 18 years and older with PCC symptoms lasting at least three months and requires stable medication use and understanding of English. Total participation duration and follow-up details are based on the study schedule to evaluate symptom changes.

Cervicothoracic Sympathetic Block Evaluation for Post COVID Condition