CELIAC PLEXUS NERVE BLOCK

A celiac plexus block is a pain management procedure used to treat chronic abdominal pain. The celiac plexus is a network of nerves located behind the stomach, near the aorta. These nerves transmit pain signals from various abdominal organs, including the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, intestines, and kidneys.

In a celiac plexus block with IR (image-guided) fluoroscopy, a doctor injects medication near the celiac plexus to temporarily block the transmission of pain signals. Fluoroscopy uses real-time X-rays to visualize the needle placement and ensure accuracy.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the procedure:

• Preparation: You’ll lie on your stomach on an X-ray table. Your doctor will clean and numb the injection site on your back.
• Fluoroscopy Guidance: The doctor will use fluoroscopy to visualize your anatomy and guide a needle towards the celiac plexus.
• Medication Injection: A small amount of contrast dye may be injected to confirm the needle placement. Once confirmed, the doctor will inject a mixture of anesthetic and/or steroid medication near the celiac plexus.
• Pain Relief: The medication numbs the nerves, interrupting pain signals to the brain and providing pain relief in your upper abdomen.

Benefits of IR-Guided Celiac Plexus Block:

• Accuracy: Fluoroscopy ensures precise needle placement, maximizing the effectiveness of the block and minimizing the risk of complications.
• Real-time Visualization: The doctor can see the needle and medication dispersion in real-time, allowing for adjustments if necessary.
• Reduced Risk: Fluoroscopy guidance helps prevent accidental needle placement in other structures.

Who may benefit from an IR-guided celiac plexus block?

This procedure is typically considered for patients with chronic abdominal pain not responding to other treatments. Conditions that may benefit include:

• Pancreatitis (acute or chronic)
• Pancreatic cancer
• Upper abdominal pain after surgery
• Chronic abdominal pain from benign causes (e.g., post-herpetic neuralgia)

Important Points to Consider:

• Celiac plexus block is a temporary pain relief solution. The duration of pain relief can vary from weeks to months, and repeat procedures may be needed.
• This is not a curative procedure and does not address the underlying cause of pain.
• As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with celiac plexus block, such as bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and allergic reaction to the medication.