Celiac Plexus Block

A celiac plexus block is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve severe abdominal pain by targeting the celiac plexus—a network of nerves located in the upper abdomen near the aorta. These nerves transmit pain signals from the abdominal organs, including the pancreas, liver, stomach, and intestines, to the brain. By blocking these signals, the procedure can provide significant pain relief.

Conditions Treated with Celiac Plexus Block

This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from:

Pancreatic Cancer: Tumors can exert pressure on the celiac plexus, leading to intense pain.
Chronic Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas often results in persistent upper abdominal and back pain.

Benefits of Celiac Plexus Block

Undergoing a celiac plexus block can offer several advantages:

Significant Pain Reduction: Many patients experience substantial relief from abdominal pain, enhancing their quality of life.
Decreased Reliance on Oral Pain Medications: Effective pain control through this procedure may reduce the need for systemic painkillers and their associated side effects.
Improved Daily Functioning: Alleviating chronic pain can lead to better sleep, increased appetite, and overall improved well-being.

The Procedure: What to Expect

At Kansas Pain Management, our skilled specialists perform the celiac plexus block with precision and care:

Preparation: You’ll receive specific instructions before the procedure, such as fasting for several hours and temporarily discontinuing certain medications like blood thinners.

During the Procedure: While lying on your stomach, a sedative will be administered to help you relax. Using imaging guidance, the physician will insert a thin needle into your back near the spine to deliver anesthetic medication to the celiac plexus.

Post-Procedure: The entire process typically takes less than an hour. After a brief observation period, you can return home the same day.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While the celiac plexus block is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks, which may include:

Temporary Low Blood Pressure: Some patients may experience a drop in blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness.
Diarrhea: A temporary side effect due to the block’s impact on abdominal nerves.
Soreness at Injection Site: Mild discomfort or bruising may occur where the needle was inserted.

Our team will discuss these risks with you in detail and take all necessary precautions to minimize them.

Is a Celiac Plexus Block Right for You?

If you’re experiencing chronic abdominal pain that hasn’t responded well to other treatments, a celiac plexus block may be a viable option. At Kansas Pain Management, we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Our experts will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if this procedure is suitable for you.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Kansas Pain Management. We’re here to help you take the next step toward a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

Treatment Offered By Kansas Pain Management

Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

Kansas Pain Management also offers a range of minimally invasive procedures to help alleviate pain and restore function. With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. You can book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Roeland Park, etc. We also serve nearby locations like Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton, Manhattan, Lee’s Summit, Johnson County & Kansas areas.