The celiac plexus is a bundle of nerves that branches out from the spine and connects to the organs in the abdomen – mainly the pancreas. These nerves transmit information, including pain, to the brain. When issues in the abdomen, such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer develop, the pain sent through the nerves may be difficult to live with or simply unbearable.
Celiac Plexus Block
A Celiac Plexus Block effectively disrupts these nerves, allowing for the pain to be relieved. To begin the procedure, the patient will be put under anesthesia to relax or be put to sleep. The skin is numbed, and a small needle guided by an x-ray or fluoroscopy will be inserted towards the celiac plexus nerves. When the area has been reached, the doctor will carefully inject an anesthetic that will disrupt, or ‘block’, the nerves, helping you better manage the pain felt due to issues near the abdomen. The process may be repeated in one procedure in order to affect nerves on the opposite sides of the body from which the needle was placed.
In many cases, pain will still be felt following the procedure that should subside. In the event that the pain felt in the abdomen persists, additional blocks may be required in order to properly address the situation. The Center for Spine and Pain Medicine always has your best interests at heart, and will always discuss your options with you thoroughly to find the best way to help you.