Coeliac plexus block for upper abdominal cancer pain

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology Nursing

Background:

• Intractable upper abdominal pain is a common challenge in patients with malignancy.
• Coeliac plexus block (CPB) is an established interventional pain management technique.
• Effective pain relief can significantly improve patient quality of life and reduce opioid-related side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy and safety of coeliac plexus block (CPB) for intractable upper abdominal pain in malignancy.
• To highlight the benefits of CPB in reducing opioid consumption and associated adverse effects.
• To inform healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, about potential complications and their management.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on coeliac plexus block for cancer pain.
• Analysis of reported pain relief rates and duration.
• Assessment of adverse events and complications associated with CPB.

Main Results:

• CPB provides significant pain relief in 70-90% of patients with upper abdominal malignancy.
• The procedure allows for a reduction in opioid use and related side effects.
• Most adverse effects (diarrhea, hypotension, local pain) are transient, but severe complications like paraplegia have been reported.

Conclusions:

• Coeliac plexus block is a highly effective intervention for managing intractable upper abdominal cancer pain.
• While generally safe, CPB carries risks of transient and severe complications.
• Nurses play a vital role in monitoring patients for and managing CPB complications.