Celiac Plexus Block Treatment Specialist in San Antonio TX

The celiac plexus block is a procedure designed to reduce abdominal pain by targeting a bundle of nerves located near the upper abdomen. This cluster of nerves, called the celiac plexus, is responsible for carrying pain signals from organs such as the pancreas, stomach, intestines, kidneys, and liver. When these nerves are blocked, the transmission of pain signals to the brain is interrupted, providing significant relief for individuals with chronic abdominal discomfort. This approach is most often used in patients who experience pain from conditions such as chronic pancreatitis, abdominal cancers, or other gastrointestinal disorders that do not respond well to conventional treatments. By reducing pain at the source, patients are able to experience improved quality of life and greater comfort during daily activities.

Unlike medications that circulate through the bloodstream, a celiac plexus block provides targeted relief at the site where pain signals originate. This focused treatment often means fewer systemic side effects compared to oral pain medicines. For patients with long-term pain, this method can be an important part of their overall care plan. The specialists at San Antonio Pain Consultants may recommend a celiac plexus block when abdominal pain interferes with daily function or when other therapies have not provided sufficient relief. By addressing nerve activity directly, this treatment can help patients manage their pain more effectively.

A celiac plexus block is performed with the patient lying face down or on their side, depending on the approach chosen by the physician. Using imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy or computed tomography, the physician carefully locates the celiac plexus to ensure accuracy and safety. The skin over the treatment area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure begins. Once the area is prepared, a thin needle is advanced through the back to reach the cluster of nerves. The use of live imaging allows the physician to confirm correct placement of the needle. In some cases, contrast dye may be injected to verify that the medication will be delivered to the proper location.

After placement is confirmed, the physician injects a combination of local anesthetic and sometimes a steroid to interrupt the pain signals carried by the celiac plexus. The entire procedure typically lasts less than an hour and is often done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.

At San Antonio Pain Consultants, providers focus on precision and patient comfort during this procedure. By combining advanced imaging with careful technique, they aim to ensure the safest and most effective delivery of the block.

During the procedure, the patient is made comfortable on the treatment table, and vital signs are monitored throughout. A mild sedative may be given to help the patient relax, but general anesthesia is not usually necessary. Once the skin is numbed, the physician inserts the needle under continuous imaging guidance toward the celiac plexus nerves. The needle is carefully advanced to the appropriate position, with the physician checking its placement at every step. Once it reaches the correct area, a test injection may be performed with contrast dye to confirm that the medication will spread effectively around the nerve cluster. This ensures the treatment is delivered exactly where it is needed.

When placement is verified, the physician injects the anesthetic solution, the anesthetic blocks the nerve activity, reducing or eliminating the pain signals traveling to the brain. The patient may feel some warmth or pressure in the abdomen as the medication takes effect.

The specialists at San Antonio Pain Consultants perform this procedure with close attention to both safety and patient response. By carefully monitoring throughout, they can provide a thorough and controlled treatment experience.

Relief from a celiac plexus block can occur within minutes to hours after the procedure, depending on how the anesthetic interacts with the nerves. Many patients experience an immediate decrease in abdominal pain as the anesthetic takes effect. In some cases, the full benefit may not be noticeable until a few days later as inflammation around the nerves settles. The duration of pain relief varies from patient to patient. Some individuals may only have short-term relief, while others can experience weeks or even months of reduced pain. Repeat treatments may be considered if the initial block provides meaningful improvement, but the effect eventually wears off.

The effectiveness of the block depends on the underlying condition causing the pain. Patients with cancer-related abdominal pain often report significant relief, while those with chronic pancreatitis or gastrointestinal conditions may also benefit. The response to treatment helps physicians determine whether future blocks or other options should be pursued. Providers evaluate each patient’s response to the block and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. By tailoring the approach to individual needs, they strive to achieve the most lasting relief possible for chronic abdominal pain.

Why Choose Dr. Darius Zagunis for Celiac Plexus Block Treatment

Dr. Darius Zagunis, a board-certified pain management specialist with extensive experience in Anesthesiology and Pain Management, is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate care for patients suffering from chronic pain. With a gentle and individualized approach, Dr. Zagunis offers the latest cutting-edge treatments to address conditions like lower back and neck pain. His expertise in Celiac Plexus Block treatment reflects his commitment to delivering effective solutions for pain relief.

Choosing Dr. Zagunis means partnering with a specialist who understands the complexities of your pain and tailors treatment plans to meet your unique needs. By utilizing advanced techniques and focusing on minimizing discomfort, Dr. Zagunis ensures a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to pain management, helping patients achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.

Celiac plexus block treatments are available at San Antonio Pain Consultants. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 3903 Wiseman Blvd, Ste 117, San Antonio, TX 78251. We serve patients from San Antonio TX, Helotes TX, Alamo Ranch TX, Leon Valley TX, Shavano Park TX, Balcones Heights TX, Fair Oaks TX, Fair Oaks Ranch TX, Castroville TX, and surrounding areas.