Overview:
- An intercostal nerve block is a minimally invasive injection procedure that helps alleviate pain in the chest caused by shingles or a surgical incision.
- Intercostal nerves can be found under each rib, and when irritated or inflamed, may cause pain to surrounding tissues.
- The pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain Consultants explain what an intercostal nerve block is and how it’s used to reduce chronic chest pain.
What Is An Intercostal Nerve Block?
Intercostal nerve blocks may be used as a diagnostic tool, as well as a way to reduce pain and inflammation caused by irritated intercostal nerves. Chronic pain may develop from damaged intercostal nerves that have been affected by a herpes zoster infection (shingles), a rash-like virus that typically affects the chest area. A surgical incision or chest scar that causes damage to intercostal nerves may also result in chronic pain.
What To Expect During An Intercostal Nerve Block
Similar to other injection procedures, an intercostal nerve block contains a local anesthetic and steroid medication to reduce inflammation and persistent pain. During the procedure, patients may receive an intravenous medication (conscious sedation) to reduce pain or discomfort. After the appropriate amount of time, a physician will then sanitize the affected area and insert a thin needle under the rib to inject a local anesthetic.
Once the anesthetic has been injected, the physician will use x-ray imagining to locate the affected area and inject a contrast dye. Shortly thereafter, a second needle will be inserted to release the steroid pain medication. The procedure should take less than 30 minutes, and patients will be sent home that same day.
Benefits Of An Intercostal Nerve Block
Most patients report immediate pain relief after the injection, but some pain could return a few hours later once the anesthetic wears off. Long-term pain relief will usually occur two to three days after the procedure, once the steroid medication begins to take effect. Pain relief could last anywhere from several weeks to several months.
Risks Or Complications
As with any procedure, there are some risks patients should be aware of. Although rare, serious complications could include infection, a collapsed lung, nerve damage, bleeding and more. Bruising or soreness that develops a few days after the injection is considered a normal side effect.
Patients interested in learning more about intercostal nerve blocks should talk to their Tulsa Pain Consultants physician. Call Tulsa Pain Consultants today to schedule your appointment!
Tulsa Pain Consultants is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.