Celiac Plexus Neurolysis
EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis is a procedure in which an endoscope with a special ultrasound probe is used to inject medication into the celiac plexus, a network of nerves in the abdomen that helps control digestion and blood flow to the intestines. The procedure is used to treat chronic abdominal pain, particularly in people with pancreatic cancer or other conditions that cause abdominal pain.
During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end (called an endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and passed down into the abdomen. The endoscope has an ultrasound probe attached to it, which allows the doctor to visualize the celiac plexus. The doctor then injects a medication, such as alcohol or phenol, into the celiac plexus to destroy the nerves and reduce pain. The procedure is typically performed under conscious sedation and takes about an hour to complete.
risks & benefits
EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis may be an option for people who have not responded to other treatments for abdominal pain. However, the procedure carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and allergic reactions to the medication used. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor before making a decision about whether to undergo EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive procedure that can be performed using an endoscope and ultrasound probe.
- It may be an option for people who have chronic abdominal pain that has not responded to other treatments.
- It may provide significant pain relief for some people with pancreatic cancer or other conditions that cause abdominal pain.
Risks:
- Infection and bleeding after the procedure.
- Allergic reactions to the medication used during the procedure.
- The procedure may not provide complete pain relief for everyone.
- In rare cases, the procedure may cause nerve damage or other complications.
FAQs
EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis is a procedure in which an endoscope with an ultrasound probe is used to inject medication into the celiac plexus, a network of nerves in the abdomen that helps control digestion and blood flow to the intestines. The procedure is used to treat chronic abdominal pain, particularly in people with pancreatic cancer or other conditions that cause abdominal pain.
During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end (called an endoscope) is inserted through the mouth and passed down into the abdomen. The endoscope has an ultrasound probe attached to it, which allows the doctor to visualize the celiac plexus. The doctor then injects a medication, such as alcohol or phenol, into the celiac plexus to destroy the nerves and reduce pain. The procedure is typically performed under conscious sedation and takes about an hour to complete.
The risks of EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis include infection, bleeding, and allergic reactions to the medication used during the procedure. There is also a risk of nerve damage or other complications in rare cases.
EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis may be covered by insurance, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis may be used to treat chronic abdominal pain in people with pancreatic cancer or other conditions that cause abdominal pain. It is typically not used as the primary treatment for pancreatic cancer and may be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation.
Recovery time after EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis may vary, but most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few days. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for care after the procedure to help ensure a smooth recovery.
In many cases, EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you will be able to go home the same day as the procedure. However, if you have other medical conditions or if there are complications during the procedure, you may need to stay in the hospital for a longer period of time.
You may not need to follow a special diet after EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis. However, it is important to drink plenty of fluids to help flush any medication out of your system. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on what you can and cannot eat.
The length of the EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis procedure can vary, but it typically takes about an hour to complete.
Your doctor will likely schedule a follow-up appointment after your EUS-guided celiac plexus neurolysis to ensure that you are recovering well and to check for any complications.