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Updated: Jan 7, 2026
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Functional and Morphological Assessment of Diaphragm Innervation by Phrenic Motor Neurons
Published on: May 25, 2015
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Phrenic Nerve Block for Intractable Hiccups: A Case Series.
Arun Kalava1, Seema Parikh2, Parker Nguyen2
1Department of Anesthesiology, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, USA.
Cureus
|December 19, 2025
Summary
Phrenic nerve block (PhNB) offers limited benefit for intractable hiccups. This study found variable and often temporary relief, highlighting the need for careful patient selection and alternative treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Interventional Pain Management
Background:
- Intractable hiccups, persisting >30 days, pose a therapeutic challenge.
- Phrenic nerve block (PhNB) is an emerging treatment, but its efficacy is not well-established across diverse patient groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the therapeutic benefit of PhNB in a series of patients with intractable hiccups.
- To analyze the outcomes and identify factors influencing treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Seven patients with intractable hiccups (idiopathic and post-procedural) underwent ultrasound-guided PhNB.
- Treatments involved local anesthetic and perineural dexamethasone, with some bilateral procedures.
Main Results:
- PhNB demonstrated limited or no sustained therapeutic benefit in most cases.
- Relief was temporary in some patients; one experienced symptom exacerbation.
- Variable responses were observed across different etiologies and durations of hiccups.
Conclusions:
- Phrenic nerve block shows variable efficacy for intractable hiccups, necessitating careful patient selection.
- Standardized protocols and exploration of alternative therapies are crucial for managing this condition.
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