Procedure Description
A chemical neurolytic block—also called neurolysis—is an advanced pain management procedure that uses a chemical agent (such as phenol or alcohol) to destroy or disrupt pain-transmitting nerves. This technique is used when longer-lasting pain relief is needed, especially in cases where nerves are transmitting severe, intractable pain due to cancer or chronic disease.
Neurolysis is typically performed only after a diagnostic nerve block confirms that the target nerve is responsible for the pain. It offers long-term relief by stopping the nerve’s ability to send pain signals.
What It Treats
Chemical neurolysis is used to treat:
Severe cancer-related pain (e.g., pancreatic, abdominal, pelvic cancers)
Chronic visceral or neuropathic pain when other treatments have failed
Pain from plexuses or peripheral nerves, such as:
Celiac plexus pain (e.g., pancreatic or upper abdominal cancer)
Hypogastric plexus pain (e.g., pelvic cancer pain)
Lumbar or intercostal nerve pain
Spasticity or hypertonicity in select cases (as part of motor nerve neurolysis)
Neurolysis is typically reserved for patients who require prolonged pain relief, are non-responsive to medications or nerve blocks, or need to reduce reliance on opioids.
How It Is Performed
You will be positioned based on the targeted nerve (lying on your back, stomach, or side).
The skin over the area is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic.
Using fluoroscopy (X-ray), ultrasound, or CT guidance, the provider advances a needle to the target nerve or plexus.
A diagnostic block with anesthetic may be performed first to confirm the pain source.
Once confirmed, a chemical agent (e.g., alcohol or phenol) is slowly injected to ablate the nerve.
The needle is removed, and a bandage is applied.
The procedure typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on the location and complexity.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior if sedation is planned.
You may need to pause blood thinners several days before the procedure—confirm with your provider.
Inform your physician if you:
Are allergic to local anesthetics, alcohol, or contrast dye
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have an infection or fever
Arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure.
Wear comfortable clothing and bring a list of current medications.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Pain relief may begin within minutes to hours and can last from weeks to several months, depending on the nerve treated.
You may feel temporary numbness, weakness, or soreness in the treated area.
Mild nausea, dizziness, or blood pressure changes may occur—especially with plexus blocks.
Follow-up visits may be scheduled to monitor effectiveness and adjust your treatment plan.
Some patients may require repeat neurolysis if the nerve regenerates and pain returns.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever or signs of infection
Persistent numbness or weakness
Uncontrolled pain or new symptoms
Long-Term Pain Relief Without Surgery
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer advanced techniques like chemical neurolysis for patients with severe or cancer-related pain. Using image-guided precision, we provide long-lasting relief for those who have not responded to other therapies.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to see if a neurolytic block is the right next step in your pain management journey.
