Celiac Plexus Neurolysis

Understanding Celiac Plexus Blocks and Neurolysis

Are you or a loved one dealing with abdominal pain due to cancer? Red Butte Pain Solutions is here to help you understand two procedures that may provide relief: Celiac Plexus Blocks and Celiac Plexus Neurolysis. These treatments are options for patients in the Chandler, Sun Lakes, Tempe, Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Laveen, Maricopa, Casa Grande, Mesa, and Gilbert, Arizona communities.

What Are Celiac Plexus Blocks and Neurolysis?

The Celiac Plexus is a group of nerves near the stomach that can send pain signals to your brain. When these nerves are blocked, they can’t tell your brain that you’re in pain.

Celiac Plexus Blocks involve an injection that numbs these nerves, providing temporary relief from pain. This might be a choice if other pain medicines aren’t doing enough or if they cause side effects.

Celiac Plexus Neurolysis is a bit different. It uses an injection to permanently stop these nerves from working. This can give long-term relief from pain.

When Are These Procedures Used?

Doctors suggest these procedures for severe pain in the belly that doesn’t get better with regular pain medicine. This pain is often from cancer or chronic pancreatitis.

How Are They Done?

Both procedures are done with injections. For a Celiac Plexus Block, the doctor uses medicine to numb the nerves temporarily. For Neurolysis, they use a special alcohol to stop the nerves from working forever.

How Successful Are They?

Many people find relief with these treatments. For the block, pain relief can last from 3 to 6 months. If the pain comes back, the treatment can be done again¹. For neurolysis, the relief can last around 3 months or so, and it’s meant for long-term relief.

How Long Do the Effects Last?

After a Celiac Plexus Block, you might feel better for 2 to 6 months. With Neurolysis, the effects are expected to last for about 3 months or more.

Benefits of Celiac Plexus Blocks and Neurolysis

• Pain Relief: Both procedures are highly effective in reducing severe abdominal pain, especially for cancer patients.
• Reduced Dependency on Medication: They can decrease the need for pain medication, which is particularly beneficial for those who experience side effects from opioids.
• Improved Quality of Life: By managing pain effectively, patients can enjoy a better quality of life with less discomfort.
• Non-Opioid Treatment Option: These procedures offer an alternative to opioid-based pain management, avoiding related side effects like fatigue, dizziness, and addiction risks.
• Quick Procedure: The block is a quick outpatient procedure, typically taking 30 to 60 minutes, with pain relief often felt shortly after completion.
• Long-Term Relief: Neurolysis can provide long-lasting pain relief, making it a suitable option for long-term pain management.

At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we care about helping you manage your pain. If you’re in the Arizona communities we serve and are struggling with abdominal pain from cancer, reach out to us. We’re here to support you on your journey to feeling better.