The value of angio-CT system on splanchnic nerve neurolysis

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of splanchnic nerve neurolysis (SNN) with angio-CT, a hybrid system combining computed tomography (CT) with X-ray fluoroscopy.

Thirty-three SNN procedures with angio-CT performed in 30 patients with severe epigastric cancer pain (11 males and 19 females; median age, 57 years; age range, 19-79 years) between January 2010 and July 2017 were retrospectively evaluated. The primary endpoints were the technical success and adverse event rates. The secondary endpoints included the clinical success rate, defined as a reduction in the numerical rating scale for pain score or a decrease in the consumption of analgesics on day 1 and at 1-2 weeks after the procedure; procedure time; the number of needle punctures; amount of ethanol required; and the distribution of contrast medium in the retrocrural space. These endpoints were compared with previous studies that did not employ the angio-CT system.

The technical success rate was 96.97%. There were two procedure-related adverse events (one retroperitoneal hemorrhage, one pneumothorax). The clinical success rates on day 1 and at 1-2 weeks after the procedure were 84.38% and 87.5%, respectively. The median procedure time was 60 minutes. The median number of needles used was 2. The median amount of ethanol used was 20 mL.

SNN under angio-CT is safe and effective, with excellent technical and clinical success rates and acceptable adverse event rates. These results are comparable with previous studies that did not involve angio-CT. However, the use of angio-CT allows for easier needle positioning and an earlier response to complications compared with conventional methods.