Abdominal wall block

What is abdominal wall block?

Nerves conduct pain signals. Abdominal wall block is a procedure involving injection of medications close to the nerves running in between the muscles in the abdomen. It can help diagnose or treat certain types of abdominal pain.

What is injected in a nerve block?

Mostly a combination of numbing medicine (local anaesthetics) and anti-inflammatory cortisone (steroids) is injected near the nerve. The purpose is to calm down the nerves and provide pain relief.

What is the benefit of nerve block? How long does it last for?

The benefits of nerve blocks tend to be temporary. Some patients get pain relief for a short period of time and others up to a year. Some nerve blocks may be repeated. This depends on amount & duration of pain relief you receive with the nerve block.

Are there any risks associated with nerve blocks?

All medical interventions carry some risk. This includes possibility of infection, bruising, injection soreness, dizziness and failure. Very rarely a nerve block procedure can lead to permanent nerve damage causing numbness, weakness of muscles and exacerbation of pain. There is an extremely rare risk of damaging internal organs. If you receive a steroid injection, this may cause higher blood sugar levels if you are diabetic.

On the day of nerve block, is there a need for any specific preparation?

You do not have to skip any meals before your nerve block. Eat lightly and drink plenty of water. Unless specifically advised to stop any, you can take your routine medications as usual. Please bring a list of your medications with you.

What happens when I come to hospital for the nerve block?

Your stay in hospital may vary between 30 min to 1 hour. The actual injection takes only few minutes to perform. The doctor will use ultrasound scan to locate the nerve and then perform the nerve block. You will be awake during the procedure. After cleaning the site with cold antiseptic, the injection will be delivered with a fine needle.

Do I need to take any precautions after the nerve block?

It is better not to drive after the procedure, instead arrange safe alternates for travel! You may be sore or have more pain before you feel better. Nerve blocks may take a few days to help, with no need for any bed rest. Avoid strenuous physical activity on the day of nerve block. From the next day onwards, you can resume back to your normal activities.