Selective Spinal Nerve Block in Ilioinguinal, Iliohypogastric and Genitofemoral Neuralgia

To seek the efficacy of selective spinal nerve blocks in the treatment of groin pain that are irresponsive to peripheral nerve blocks.

This retrospective study comprised 17 patients with ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, and genitofemoral neuralgias treated between 2017 and 2018.

All patients received diagnostic peripheral nerve blocks and/or TAP blocks with blind or ultrasound-guided techniques. Four patients had ineffectual peripheral nerve blocks, after which they underwent T12 and L1 selective spinal nerve blocks. All four patients had satisfactory results.

If distal peripheral nerve blocks are ineffective, an upper level nerve lesion, a lesion in the lumbar plexus or an L1 radiculopathy should be considered in ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, and genitofemoral neuralgias. Upper level nerve blocks should be performed before deciding on surgery.