A Comprehensive Review of the Celiac Plexus Block for the Management of Chronic Abdominal Pain

The objective of this manuscript is to provide a comp rehensive review of the CPB as it pertains to CAP with a focus on the associated anatomy, indications, techniques, neurolysis/blocking agents, and complications observed in patients who undergo CPB for the treatment of CAP.Recent FindingsThe CAP is difficult to manage due to lack of precision in diagnosis and limited evidence from available treatments. CAP can arise from both benign and malignant causes. Treatment options include pharmacologic, interventional, and biopsychosocial treatments. Opioid therapy is typically utilized for the treatment of CAP; however, opioid therapy is associated with multiple complications. CPB has successfully been used to treat a variety of conditions resulting in CAP. The majority of the literature specifically related to CPB is surrounding chronic pain associated with pancreatic cancer. The literature shows emerging evidence in managing CAP with CPB, specifically in pancreatic cancer.SummaryThis review provides multiple aspects of CAP and CPB, including anatomy, medical necessity, indications, technical considerations, available evidence, and finally complications related to the management.
Source: Current Pain and Headache Reports - Category: Neurology Source Type: research