Neural blockade for abdominopelvic pain of oncologic origin

Int Anesthesiol Clin. 1998 Summer;36(3):87-104. doi: 10.1097/00004311-199803630-00010.

Abstract

Neural blockade, like other accepted treatments for persistent pain, is not a panacea. Careful assessment is required to elicit the need for complementary interventions, including pharmacological management and psychobehavioral and rehabilitative approaches, combined with attention to the palliation of other symptoms. Celiac and superior hypogastric plexus blocks are well-accepted, effective, and minimally hazardous means for providing palliation of visceral abdominopelvic pain. Although they require radiological imaging, they are relatively undemanding of the experienced anesthesiologist pain specialist and do not deplete patients' limited resources and energy. Because of their uniquely favorable risk:benefit ratio, these procedures should be considered early in the course of treating patients with abdominopelvic pain that is expected to persist.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / therapy*
  • Analgesics / therapeutic use
  • Behavior Therapy
  • Celiac Plexus
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Humans
  • Hypogastric Plexus
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Nerve Block*
  • Palliative Care
  • Pelvic Pain / therapy*
  • Risk Assessment

Substances

  • Analgesics