Greater Occipital Nerve Blockade: A Safe and Effective Option for the Acute Treatment of Hemiplegic Aura

BackgroundProlonged auras such as those of hemiplegic migraine or migraine with brainstem aura may be extremely disabling. The availability of effective treatments is limited, but two case reports described cessation of the aura symptoms after a greater occipital nerve (GON) blockade. CaseA 26-year-old woman with a history of hemiplegic migraine with prolonged auras came to our office with an episode of motor and sensory aura 1 hour after onset. Both muscle strength and sensory function started to improve immediately after a GON anesthetic blockade, and the patient was fully relieved in 50 minutes. ConclusionGON blockade may be an effective option for the acute treatment of hemiplegic aura or other prolonged migraine auras.