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This procedure is used to treat patients with acute or chronic abdominal pain. Local anesthetic is injected into the celiac plexus, a nerve bundle that provides sensory input to the organs in the abdomen, including the Pancreas. The procedure is done under fluoroscopic guidance, while the patient is laying on their stomach. Lidocaine, and other numbing medication is used to numb the areas of the skin and tissues.
Often relief due to the anesthetic is felt immediately. How long the pain relief lasts differs with each person. Some may experience pain relief for weeks, months, or even years. It may take a series of injections to continue the pain relief.
Generally, 10 minutes for the procedure with 15-20 minutes of observatory recovery time.
If local anesthetics are used, we advise you not to drive for at least 12 hours. If sedation is used you should not drive or operate heavy machinery for 24 hours. By the next day, previous activities may be resumed unless there are complications. Despite improvement, you are cautioned against engaging in strenuous activities. A gradual increase in activities is advised.
Side effects and adverse reactions are rare. Most common side effect is pain and soreness at the injection site. You may experience diarrhea over the next 24 hours. Uncommon risks include bleeding, infection, stomachache, backache, decreased blood pressure, in diabetics an increase in blood sugar, bruising, and or neurological damage or impairment. Fortunately, serious side effects and complications are uncommon.