Coeliac plexus block for upper abdominal cancer pain

The use of coeliac plexus block (CPB) to relieve intractable pain owing to upper abdominal malignancy is well established. Significant relief of pain is reported in 70-90% of patients, allowing a reduction in opioid use and in the occurrence of opioid-related side effects (Eisenberg et al, 1995; Prasanna, 1996). Duration of relief varies, but the majority of patients experience relatively pain-free deaths (Patt, 1993). CPB is a relatively safe procedure, and although it is associated with common adverse effects such as diarrhoea, hypotension and local pain, these are mostly transient. However, severe complications, including paraplegia, have been reported. When CPB is performed, nurses should be aware of these potential complications and their management.