Effect of Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment on Long COVID Symptoms: A Single-Blind, Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial (STAR-CO)

NCT07374562 NA RECRUITING

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.

Details

Lead sponsor	Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec
Phase	NA
Status	RECRUITING
Enrolment	40
Start date	2026-02-05
Completion	2027-02

Conditions

• Long COVID

Interventions

• Stellate Ganglion Block (Bupivacaine)
• placebo saline injection

Primary outcomes

• Post-COVID-19 Functional Status Scale (PCFS) — 4 weeks after the intervention
  The PCFS measures limitations in daily functioning related to persistent post-COVID-19 symptoms. Scores range from 0 (no functional limitation) to 4 (severe functional limitation). Assesses changes in functional status over time.
• Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) — 4 weeks after the intervention
  The FSS is a validated 9-item questionnaire assessing the impact of fatigue on daily activities, motivation, and functioning. Each item is scored from 1 to 7; higher scores indicate greater fatigue severity. Clinically significant change is defined as ≥0.45 points.
• Brain Fog Scale (BFS) — 4 weeks after the intervention
  The BFS is a 23-item questionnaire evaluating cognitive symptoms associated with Long COVID, including mental fatigue, cognitive clarity, logical thinking, and concentration. Total scores range from 0 to 92, with higher scores indicating more severe cognitive impairment.

Countries

Canada