WHAT IS A CELIAC PLEXUS NERVE BLOCK?
A celiac plexus nerve block is an injection of medication into the nerves that support the organs and tissues of the abdomen. It is used to relieve pain for patients suffering from diseases of the pancreas, liver, and other abdominal organs. HOW DOES A CELIAC PLEXUS NERVE BLOCK ALLEVIATE MY PAIN? Patients can experience pain associated with pancreatitis or other diseases of the abdominal organs. Celiac plexus blocks can temporarily block the nerves that carry the pain from these organs. A combination of two medications is used in this injection: a local anesthetic and a steroid. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief by numbing the area of the injection. The numbing effect will typically wear off in 4–6 hours. The steroid provides pain relief by reducing the inflammation in the area of the injection. The steroid can take 2–10 days to begin working. A series of injections may be needed to provide the desired pain relief. POST PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS ACTIVITY: – Do not drive
