Hypogastric Plexus Block

What Is a Hypogastric Plexus Block?

The hypogastric plexus is a collection of nerves that is located in front of the fifth lumbar and first sacral vertebral bodies. This means that the plexus is located near the lower part of your abdomen in the upper front of your pelvis. A hypogastric plexus block involves the administration of a dose of pain killing medication near the region of this nerve collection. The hypogastric block usually involves a series of several injections, repeated at weekly intervals.

This treatment has brought relief to many patients who suffer from pain located in the pelvic structures, to include pain located in the region of the bladder, lower intestines, as well as the uterus, ovaries and vagina in women, and the prostate and testicles in men.

How quickly can I expect pain relief?

Most patients can expect pain relief within the first 15 to 20 minutes after the injection of local anesthetic. This pain relief may only last several hours; however, if the physician has also used steroid medication, you may also receive some pain relief that will begin roughly 36 hours after the injection. Duration of pain relief is somewhat variable, as it differs from patient to patient.