Pain Management

Celiac Plexus Block

The celiac plexus is a group of nerves behind the organs of the abdomen. It carries pain messages from the pancreas, liver, kidney, gall bladder, spleen and bowels. The block is used to treat pain from chronic pancreatitis and cancer pain.

Blockade of the celiac plexus with local anesthetics can block abdominal pain. When agents such as alcohol or phenol are substituted for the local anesthetic, the results can persist for months or years.

Patients will often get such significant pain relief by the celiac plexus block that the use of other medications or narcotics will decrease dramatically.

The anatomy of the structures surrounding the celiac plexus are complex. To increase the success rate and to limit complications, we use the fluoroscopy (low dose x-rays) for guidance in the acute placement of the medication.

Side effects are minimal. The most common is low blood pressure and a feeling of being light headed when standing up rapidly. This decreases with time and other complications relate to needle placement and will be discussed by your physician prior to the procedure.

Recovery time varies and a few days of light activity is suggested following the block. If your occupation requires strenuous activity you may be required to take additional days off from work.

*Medications that alter your blood's clotting factor (such as Aspirin) must be stopped prior to this procedure.