Procedure Description
A celiac plexus nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic abdominal pain by targeting the celiac plexus—a network of nerves located in the upper abdomen, near the aorta and surrounding several major organs. These nerves transmit pain signals from the stomach, liver, pancreas, kidneys, intestines, and adrenal glands.
By injecting medication near this nerve bundle, the procedure helps to disrupt pain signals and provide long-lasting relief from visceral abdominal pain, especially in patients with cancer-related or chronic pancreatitis pain.
What It Treats
Celiac plexus blocks are used to treat:
Pancreatic cancer pain
Chronic pancreatitis
Upper abdominal cancer pain (liver, gallbladder, stomach, kidney, etc.)
Non-cancer-related abdominal pain when other therapies fail
This procedure is especially effective when pain is deep, burning, or aching, and located in the upper abdomen or mid-back.
How It Is Performed
You will lie on your stomach on a fluoroscopy (X-ray) or CT scan table.
The skin over your lower back is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic.
Using real-time imaging guidance (fluoroscopy or CT), the physician inserts one or two thin needles through the back to reach the area around the celiac plexus.
A contrast dye is injected to confirm accurate needle placement.
A mixture of local anesthetic and corticosteroid is injected to temporarily block the nerves. In some cases, alcohol or phenol may be used for longer-term neurolytic (destructive) blocks, particularly for cancer pain.
The needles are removed, and a small bandage is placed.
The procedure takes about 10–15 minutes, and you are monitored briefly afterward before discharge.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before the procedure if sedation is planned.
Arrange for a driver to take you home.
Continue most medications, but your provider may ask you to stop blood thinners several days in advance.
Inform your doctor if you:
Are allergic to iodine, contrast dye, or local anesthetics
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have an active infection or fever
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.
What to Expect After the Procedure
You may experience immediate or gradual pain relief, typically within hours to a few days.
Mild soreness or temporary abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or low blood pressure may occur but generally resolves quickly.
If a neurolytic agent is used, pain relief can last weeks to months, and may be repeated as needed.
Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours and follow discharge instructions provided by your care team.
Contact your provider if you experience:
Severe or worsening abdominal pain
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
Leg weakness or difficulty walking
Uncontrolled diarrhea or dizziness
Compassionate Care for Chronic Abdominal Pain
At Parkview Pain & Spine, our experienced team uses advanced imaging and targeted techniques like celiac plexus nerve blocks to relieve pain at its source—especially in patients with pancreatic cancer or chronic abdominal disorders. This procedure offers a powerful, non-surgical option to restore comfort and improve quality of life.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to learn whether a celiac plexus block is the right next step for managing your abdominal pain.