frequent procedures
 

CELIAC PLEXUS BLOCK
Celiac Plexus Block has been classically used for controlling visceral pain related to cancer of the pancreas. This block has other indications that are relative, including chronic pancreatitis and pain related to hepatic (liver) and bioduct pain. Patients who are to undergo celiac plexus block have the procedure done under fluoroscopic guidance or under a CT scan. The procedure requires placement of an appropriate needle on either side of the posterior wall following adequate local anesthesia with the tip of the needle ending in the vicinity of the middle to the upper border of the L1 vertebra anterolaterally, with the tip of the needle on either side resting on its ipsilateral side.

In this procedure, contrast material is injected in small quantity to confirm placement followed by injection of a large quantity of local anesthetic consisting of approximately 20 cc to 30 cc of Lidocaine, for instance, in each of the needles placed. This usually provides rapid relief for such patients.

TYPES: Celiac Plexus Block can be done with local anesthetic as an intermittent single-shot procedure or it could be done with a neurolytic agent consisting of phenol or alcohol (dehydrated alcohol).

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Contraindications include pregnancy, or suspected pregnancy, allergy to contrast material or the presence of anticoagulants like Coumadin or Heparin. Patients who have abdominal aortic aneurysms in that region should also be treated with caution in that rare instance.

COMPLICATIONS: Complications are infrequent in this procedure and the procedure is usually safe. However, possible complications include pneumothorax, allergic reaction, profound hypertension, infection, or intravascular injection with seizure or dizziness.

SEDATIVES: Sedation is usually unnecessary but the patient may be premeditated at his/her request for this procedure.

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