Splanchnic Nerve Block

A splanchnic nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve chronic abdominal pain or upper abdominal cancer-related pain. The splanchnic nerves are a group of nerves located in the mid-back (thoracic spine area) that carry pain signals from the abdominal organs to the brain.

By injecting local anesthetic and sometimes steroid medication around these nerves, a splanchnic nerve block can disrupt pain signals, leading to significant relief and improved quality of life.

Your provider may recommend a splanchnic nerve block if you suffer from:

• Chronic abdominal pain that has not responded to other treatments
• Pain from pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, or other abdominal cancers
• Chronic pancreatitis pain
• Abdominal pain after surgery
• Mid-back and upper abdominal pain associated with visceral nerve issues

This block can serve both diagnostic (confirming the source of pain) and therapeutic (providing long-term relief) purposes.

The procedure is done in a sterile outpatient setting.

• You will lie face down on an X-ray table.
• The skin over the middle of your back is cleaned and sterilized.
• A local anesthetic is used to numb the injection site.
• Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, one or two small needles are placed near the splanchnic nerves, located alongside the vertebrae.
• A mixture of local anesthetic (and sometimes steroid) is injected.
• The procedure usually takes about 30–45 minutes, and you are monitored afterward before going home.

• Immediate pain relief is often felt due to the local anesthetic, but this may wear off after a few hours.
• Steroid effects, if used, may take 2–5 days to start working.
• You may experience some temporary soreness at the injection site, which should resolve within a few days.
• You should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for 24–48 hours post-procedure.
• Many patients experience significant and lasting pain relief, often lasting weeks to months.

A splanchnic nerve block is generally very safe when performed by trained specialists. Potential, rare risks include:

• Temporary drop in blood pressure (due to nerve blockade)
• Soreness or bruising at the injection site
• Infection (very rare)
• Bleeding or nerve irritation (rare)
• Allergic reaction to the medications used (very rare)

We take every precaution to ensure your comfort and safety during the procedure.

Patients choose Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah for their pain care because we offer:

• Board-certified pain management specialists experienced in complex nerve blocks
• Precision-guided procedures using advanced imaging technology
• Comprehensive, personalized treatment plans
• Minimally invasive therapies that focus on faster recovery and lasting pain relief

We are dedicated to helping you manage your abdominal pain effectively and reclaim your quality of life.