Celiac Plexus Block in Cincinnati - APSI Wellness
Learn about celiac plexus blocks for abdominal pain relief. Expert interventional pain management at APSI Wellness in Cincinnati.
Celiac Plexus Block — A celiac plexus block targets the bundle of nerves surrounding the aorta in the abdomen to relieve chronic abdominal pain from conditions like pancreatitis or abdominal cancers.
What Is a Celiac Plexus Block?
A celiac plexus block is a specialized interventional pain procedure that targets the celiac plexus — a dense network of nerves located behind the stomach near the aorta. These nerves relay pain signals from the abdominal organs (including the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, stomach, and intestines) to the brain. By blocking these nerve signals, the procedure can significantly reduce or eliminate chronic abdominal pain.
This procedure is particularly valuable for patients with severe abdominal pain that has not responded well to oral medications or other conservative treatments.
How Does It Work?
The physician injects a combination of local anesthetic and, in some cases, a neurolytic agent (such as alcohol or phenol) near the celiac plexus. This blocks pain signal transmission from the abdominal organs:
Diagnostic/therapeutic block: Uses local anesthetic alone to temporarily block pain signals, helping confirm the celiac plexus as the pain source
Neurolytic block: Uses alcohol or phenol to create a longer-lasting disruption of the nerve fibers, typically reserved for cancer-related abdominal pain
Conditions Treated
Celiac plexus blocks are most commonly used for:
Chronic pancreatitis — persistent inflammation of the pancreas causing severe abdominal pain
Pancreatic cancer — one of the most effective treatments for cancer-related abdominal pain
Abdominal cancers — cancers of the stomach, liver, gallbladder, or other upper abdominal organs
Chronic abdominal pain — when other treatments have been insufficient
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before: You may need to stop blood-thinning medications several days before the procedure. You'll arrive fasting (no food or drink for 6-8 hours).
During: You'll be positioned face-down and sedation is typically provided for comfort. Using fluoroscopic or CT guidance, the physician places needles on either side of the spine at the level of the celiac plexus. Contrast dye confirms proper placement before the blocking agent is injected. The procedure takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
After: You'll be monitored for 1-2 hours. Temporary side effects may include low blood pressure, diarrhea, and warmth in the abdomen — these are normal responses and typically resolve within 48 hours. You'll need someone to drive you home.
Benefits
Can provide dramatic pain relief for severe abdominal pain
Reduces or eliminates the need for high-dose opioid medications
Neurolytic blocks can provide relief lasting 3-6 months or longer
Improves quality of life and appetite in cancer patients
Minimally invasive alternative to surgical nerve disruption
Risks and Side Effects
Temporary low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension)
Temporary diarrhea (common and usually self-limiting)
Back soreness at the needle insertion site
Rare: bleeding, infection, or nerve injury
Very rare: injury to surrounding structures
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pain relief last from a celiac plexus block?
Diagnostic blocks with local anesthetic may last hours to days. Neurolytic blocks for cancer pain typically provide relief for 3-6 months and can be repeated.
Is this procedure only for cancer patients?
No. While neurolytic celiac plexus blocks are most commonly performed for cancer-related pain, diagnostic and therapeutic blocks with local anesthetic are also used for chronic pancreatitis and other non-cancer abdominal pain conditions.
Will I experience diarrhea after the block?
Temporary diarrhea is a common side effect that occurs because blocking the celiac plexus shifts the balance of the autonomic nervous system in the gut. It typically resolves within a few days.
Can the procedure be repeated?
Yes. Both diagnostic and neurolytic blocks can be repeated if pain returns. Your physician will discuss the appropriate timing based on your condition and response.
What if the diagnostic block doesn't help my pain?
If a diagnostic celiac plexus block does not provide significant relief, it suggests that the celiac plexus may not be the primary source of your pain. Your physician will explore other pain generators and treatment options.
APSI Wellness — Advanced Pain Solutions & Interventions
5405 DuPont Circle Suite A, Milford, OH 45150 | Phone: (513) 936-3050
https://apsiwellness.com/services/celiac-plexus-block