A celiac plexus block is a procedure to diagnose and treat certain types of abdominal pain. Pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis
are common indications for this procedure. Most pain sensations from the abdomen first pass through a bundle of nerves
called a plexus.
A celiac plexus block is an injection of a local anesthetic (like Novocain) through the back aiming at the nerve plexus which
goes to (innervates) the organs in the abdomen. Often, the block is first performed with a local anesthetic which temporarily
"blocks" the plexus. When the local anesthetic wears off, it is likely that the pain will return, although in many people, even a
local anesthetic block can result in sustained pain relief for up to months. If the patient achieves good temporary relief with the
local anesthetic block, the injection can and may be repeated using a different drug (alcohol or phenol) which will damage the
nerve plexus, thus blocking the nerves for a prolonged period of time. This is called a neurolytic (nerve destruction) block.
The block will take about an hour to be performed. An IV is first placed. The patient will be placed face down (prone) on the
fluoroscopy (X-ray) table. The back will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution and then numbed with a local anesthetic. The
doctor will use X-ray to help guide the placement of the needle(s). Dye will be injected first to assure correct placement of the
needle(s). Then, the local anesthetic will be injected and the needle(s) removed. Next, the patient will be taken to the
recovery area where the blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored. A Band-Aid may be applied to the injection site. The
nurse will review the discharge instructions with the patient before going home.
