INTERCOASTAL NERVE BLOCK
Reasons to perform the procedure:
This procedure is generally offered if you are experiencing chronic pain of the chest wall and upper abdomen.
Before the Procedure:
You will be informed where and when to report for the procedure. You may be asked not to eat or drink after midnight the night before. You will be examined by your doctor and asked to rate your pain.
Description of the Procedure:
Once the informed consent has been obtained, your specialist anaesthetist will insert an intravenous (IV) catheter in your hand or arm, and you shall be placed in the prone position which means laying on your abdomen throughout the procedure.
After this, your anaesthetist is going to produce a twilight or sedation experience to ensure you are comfortable and safe. Under the X-ray guidance, your pain specialist is going to insert needles through the chest skin to reach the target area before injection of local anaesthetic with or without steroid.
After the Procedure:
You will be asked to rate your pain. You will go to the recovery room to be monitored. Your IV will be discontinued, and you will be discharged home.
Potential Complications:
-
Bleeding
-
Infection
-
Collapsed lung
Follow-up:
-
You may be requested to keep a pain diary to help you keep track of your pain. You will receive further instructions from your doctor.