Overview
Coeliac plexus block is a targeted treatment used when the nerve network in the upper abdomen is contributing to persistent visceral pain. The coeliac plexus is a group of nerves located near the aorta that carries pain signals from organs such as the pancreas, liver, stomach, and part of the intestines.
When these nerves are involved in chronic pain conditions, interrupting the pain pathway may help reduce pain intensity and improve day to day comfort. A coeliac plexus block uses local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with steroid medication, to temporarily reduce pain signals from the upper abdominal organs.
If the block provides meaningful relief but the pain later returns, coeliac plexus ablation may be considered to provide longer lasting pain control. This treatment is usually considered when upper abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or difficult to manage with medication alone and when specialist assessment suggests the coeliac plexus is contributing to the pain pathway.
Who this treatment helps
Coeliac plexus block or ablation may be considered for people with:
- Persistent upper abdominal pain affecting the pancreas or nearby organs
- Pain related to pancreatic conditions including chronic pancreatitis
- Cancer related abdominal pain involving the pancreas or upper abdominal organs
- Deep visceral abdominal pain that is difficult to control with medication
- Pain that significantly affects eating, sleep, mobility, or daily activity
- Symptoms that continue despite appropriate medical or supportive treatment
A specialist consultation is required to confirm whether this procedure is appropriate and whether the coeliac plexus is likely to be contributing to the pattern of pain.
What is a coeliac plexus block or ablation
A coeliac plexus block is an image guided injection delivered near the coeliac plexus nerve network in the upper abdomen. The injection usually contains local anaesthetic and may include steroid medication depending on the clinical situation. The aim is to interrupt pain signals travelling from abdominal organs to the brain.
Coeliac plexus ablation may be offered when diagnostic blocks suggest that this nerve pathway is an important contributor to pain. The procedure uses specialised needles and controlled techniques to disrupt pain signal transmission from the targeted nerves, helping reduce ongoing abdominal pain.
Fluoroscopy, CT guidance, or ultrasound may be used during the procedure to improve accuracy and safety.
What to expect during the procedure
- Consultant review and confirmation of the treatment plan
- You are positioned comfortably on the procedure table
- The skin is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic
- Imaging guidance is used to position the needle accurately near the coeliac plexus
- A small amount of contrast may be used to confirm correct placement
- Medication is injected for a block or ablation treatment is delivered if planned
- You are monitored for a short period before discharge
Most coeliac plexus procedures are completed as a day case.
After the procedure
Following a coeliac plexus block, you may experience temporary pain relief from the local anaesthetic shortly after the procedure. If steroid medication is used, the anti inflammatory effect may take several days to develop.
After ablation procedures, mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site can occur for a few days. Pain relief typically develops gradually as the nerve pathway settles.
Your consultant may advise:
- Avoid strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hours
- Gradually return to normal activity as comfort allows
- Continue rehabilitation or supportive care where recommended
- Keep a brief record of symptoms to monitor improvement
Benefits
- Targets a key nerve pathway responsible for upper abdominal pain
- May significantly reduce pain from pancreatic or upper abdominal conditions
- Minimally invasive and usually performed as a day case procedure
- May improve appetite, comfort, and quality of life
- Can reduce reliance on strong pain medication in selected patients
- Ablation techniques may provide longer lasting pain relief
Possible risks and side effects
Coeliac plexus procedures are generally safe when performed by experienced clinicians using imaging guidance. Possible risks and side effects may include:
- Temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site
- Low blood pressure or lightheadedness shortly after the procedure
- Diarrhoea or abdominal discomfort for a short period
- Allergic reaction to medication or contrast dye
- Infection or bleeding, which are uncommon
- Very rarely irritation of nearby structures
Your consultant will explain individual risks and how they are minimised.
When to consider other options
If symptoms do not improve or if the pain pattern suggests another source, your consultant may discuss other treatment options such as splanchnic nerve block or ablation, abdominal wall nerve blocks where appropriate, trigger point injection for abdominal wall pain, medication optimisation for nerve related pain, or multidisciplinary pain management and rehabilitation support.
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication, have diabetes, allergies, active infection, are pregnant, or have had previous reactions to local anaesthetic, steroid medication, or contrast dye. You may need someone to accompany you home depending on the medications used.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether a coeliac plexus block or ablation may help manage your abdominal pain.
You can also explore our abdominal pain treatments, view all pain treatments, or learn more about our pain management services.