Long-Term Analgesic Efficacy of Neurolytic Splanchnic Nerve Block via the Transintervertebral Disc Approach to Retrocrural Space: A Multicenter Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction:The celiac plexus block is effective for treating intractable cancer pain and has been the focus of many studies. At our affiliated institution, fluoroscopy-guided splanchnic nerve block with a single needle via the transintervertebral disc approach was the first choice of treatment. The short-term efficacy of this technique has been reported, but the longterm efficacy is not clear. In the present study, we investigated the long-term analgesic efficacy of this technique.Methods: This multicenter, retrospective, observational study reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent neurolytic splanchnic nerve block (NSNB) via the transintervertebral disc approach for intractable cancer pain at five tertiary hospitals in Japan from April 2005 to October 2020. The primary outcome was the long-term analgesic efficacy of a onetime NSNB via the transintervertebral disc approach. Results: In total, 76 patients were included in the analysis. The median lowest numerical rating scale (NRS) score was 1 within 14 days. At 1,