Celiac plexus blocks provide relief for severe abdominal pain caused by chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and other visceral pain conditions. At Keith Schmidt, MD in Hoffman Estates, IL, we offer this advanced intervention to improve quality of life for patients dealing with debilitating abdominal pain.
What Is the Celiac Plexus?
The celiac plexus is a network of nerves located in the abdomen near the aorta that transmits pain signals from the abdominal organs to the brain. When these organs are affected by disease, the resulting pain can be severe and difficult to manage with medications alone.
How the Block Provides Relief
Under fluoroscopic or CT guidance, Dr. Schmidt injects medication around the celiac plexus to interrupt pain signal transmission from the abdominal organs. This can dramatically reduce pain levels, decrease the need for oral pain medications, and improve overall quality of life. The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and can provide relief lasting weeks to months.
Take control of your abdominal pain. Contact our office to discuss celiac plexus block treatment options.