Intercostal Nerve Block

What are intercostal nerves?

There are 2 pairs of intercostal nerves present in between the ribs.

Why is this block done?

Intercostal neuralgia, rib fractures, post herpetic neuralgia, cancers spreading to ribs, chronic pain after breast surgery.

How is the procedure done?

Procedure is done in operation theatre under the effect of local anaesthesia, with patients in prone position. Under the fluoroscopic guidance appropriate site is identified and medicines are injected.

How much duration it takes to complete the procedure?

It takes 15 to 20 minutes to finish the procedure. The patient is kept under observation for an hour and discharged.

Complications of the procedure:

As it is done under image intensifier the complications incidence is very less. There are few complications like bleeding ,vasovagal attacks,pain during the procedure and injury to lung and intravascular injection.

Is it a permanent procedure for pain relief ?

This is not a permanent procedure but some times by breaking the pain cycle it can give relief for longer periods also.The alternative therapy for permanent relief would be the neurolysis of the nerves which is done with absolute alcohol.