Alternative Pancreatic Pain Block- Any experience with this one?

Pancreatitis
#1

Hi, all–

After CPB at both Mayo and here in Maryland (Mayo via EUS and here it was a neurolytic block done w/o going through the abdominal aorta)-- I’ve got a pulse radio-frequency CPB set up in a few weeks. The doc says it’s very safe and will “numb” the pancreatic nerves and may reset them from all the pain signals; it’s not permanent, but he considers it “the next step” due to my results after the other CPBs. Does anyone know more about this? I can’t find much online, but he’s allegedly done them a lot. I’m at that point of feeling desperate for some relief and some real life back, but don’t want to do anything that I might regret.

Thanks for any info/help…
and thanks to those of you keeping in touch via email ). I’m working on replies between flares-- I’m hanging in there, but having way too much pain and nausea again-- but you’re all in my thoughts and best wishes and are wonderful friends.

Hugs,

Lisa

#2

I am sorry but I don’t know anyone or anything about it. I do pray it gives you relief! I think about you often. I understand if you can’t reply, I know you are also thinking about me. Just relax and feel my hug and the comfort from God that I am praying for you!

Take care
Keri

#3

Ditto! Thank you so much. You are in my prayers as well -

Jackie

#4

Lisa,

I am sure that you have e-mailed U of Cinn. And Johns Hopkins about this procedure. Any info via the AMA? Not sure where else to look for you- I’ll try on the web as well. I sure hope this is an answer as it sounds like a wonderful alternative to pain meds!

Sending a hug and a prayer!
jackie

#5

Lisa -

Try searching the internet under its full name “Celiac Plexus Block” - it comes up with many resources about information the types, long term side effects, etc. If you haven’t had bad, bad side effects from the neurolytic though, I doubt the pulse radio version will make things worse - hopefully just better!!

Also, since it is most often used on patients with Pancreatic cancer to manage pain, I am sure that it is a good idea for you. I know you have so much more pain and difficulty than 90% of the rest of us…It makes me feel guilty sometimes, only having to stress about my occasional problems.

The last time I was in the hospital, they had me sniff the little rubbing alcohol pads while in the MRI to keep me from throwing up - it kept things down for long enough to finish the test. Try that for some of your nausea, it is worth a shot.

Amanda

#6

My gynocologist talked to me about this type of pain relief about 2 years ago. At the time he was recommending that I talk to Mayo’s pain clinic about the procedure. I never did go to the pain clinic at Mayo’s but I would check there for info…have you looked on line at Mayo.com? I could try calling my gyno if you can’t find any other source of info. Betsy

#7

Hey, Lisa, that is what my gi has recommended as well. I am still waiting to hear back about it. From what I understand it is not always effective and is definitely temporary- generally lasts a bout 6 months. I believe they approach the nerve bundle through the back. They then inject some liquid (lidocaine, alcohol, or some other caine) that disrupts the pain signals coming from that area of the digestive tract. Here is a picture that I culled from Wikipedia which shows the location of the celiac plexus (aka the solar plexus).

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