What is a Coeliac Plexus Block
The Coeliac plexus is a group of nerves nestled between the pancreas, the upper lumbar spine and the aorta.
Abdominal pain from certain cancers near the plexus can be relieved by blocking the coeliac plexus nerves (eg pancreas, liver, spleen, kidneys, stomach).
This is an injection where a “chemical” (concentrated alcohol) is used to “destroy” the coeliac plexus nerves – rather than simply anaesthetise them.
This can provide prolonged reductions pain where other pain relief strategies are not working or giving increasing side effects.
The success rate is about 50-60% for achieving 3 months or more of improved pain and it can be repeated.
Potential complications of Coeliac Plexus Block
The risks are low. There could be bruising or soreness at the insertion site but serious complications including infection, collapsed lung, nerve damage and paralysis or bleeding are rare (< 1 in 500).
Blood pressure can remain low for longer periods of time. This is rarely problematic.
Damage can occur to nerves controlling bowel function (leading to diarrhoea), and the nerves controlling sexual function. This is often self limiting.
Spinal cord damage can occur if the chemical (concentrated alcohol) spreads inside the spinal canal. This risk is controlled, as the spread of the injection can be observed directly under X-Ray. This risk is very low.
After the injection
Often due to other circumstances you will remain in hospital for monitoring.
If you are an outpatient, the NIPM nurses will call you the morning after the procedure and arrange follow up.
If you experience any severe pain, weakness or numbness, swelling, fevers, chills, severe headaches, bleeding/discharge from the wounds, or if you have any other concerns then please contact NIPM or the Hospital centre where you had your procedure. If for some reason it is not possible to get in touch, please see your GP or attend your local emergency department for assessment.
If you are an inpatient you will be cared for by your in-hospital oncology team who will communicate with your pain physician as required.