TL;DR Quick answer
A nerve block for severe upper abdominal pain, most often from pancreatic or other cancers. It is commonly used for cancer pain. The procedure takes about 30–60 minutes and is day care or short observation. Suitability is decided after a specialist assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About Coeliac Plexus Block
The coeliac plexus is a network of nerves in the upper abdomen. Blocking these nerves can reduce pain from cancers of the pancreas and other upper abdominal organs, and may reduce the need for strong pain medicines. It is planned together with the treating oncology team.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 30–60 minutes |
| Anaesthesia | Local with sedation |
| Guidance | X-ray or CT |
| Hospital stay | Day care or short observation |
| Commonly used for | Cancer Pain |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Benefits
- No surgical incision
- Day-care procedure: home the same day
- Precise, image-guided placement
- Can be combined with rehabilitation
Before the procedure
Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, an infection, or could be pregnant. You will receive specific instructions, including whether to fast and whether someone should take you home.
During the procedure
You lie on your front. Under X-ray or CT guidance, needles are placed near the nerves in front of the spine and the medicine is injected.
After the procedure
You rest for a short time before going home, usually the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two is common. Follow-up checks how much the procedure helped.
Risks and safety
Temporary low blood pressure, diarrhoea and back soreness. Rare risks include bleeding and nerve injury. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks for you before you consent.
Myths and facts
Myth Injections near the spine or nerves are very painful.
Fact The skin is numbed first. Most people feel pressure and brief discomfort.
Myth One injection fixes the problem for good.
Fact The effect varies. Some people need a repeat procedure, and most benefit from exercise and follow-up as well.
| Condition | What it is | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Pain | Specialist help for pain caused by cancer or its treatment, alongside the oncology team. | Persistent or breakthrough pain; nerve pain after treatment |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.