INTERCOSTAL NERVE BLOCKS

Indications

… Highly effective in relieving severe pain from fracture of one or more ribs.

… Fractured sternum.

… Pleurisy.

… Acute herpes zoster.

… Useful as a diagnostic/therapeutic procedure in entrapment of the intercostal nerves.

Preparation for Block

… Do not eat or drink 6 hours before having block.

… Bring someone to drive for you after the block.

… An IV will be started and a blood pressure and EKG monitor will be placed on you.

… You will be positioned on your abdomen with a pillow under you.

Procedure

… The doctor will numb your back at the appropriate landmarks along your ribs.  You may be lightly sedated.

… A longacting numbing medicine and possibly a cortisone preparation will be injected.

… After the procedure is completed, you will then be asked to turn over on your back and we will observe your vital signs for about 20 minutes and then let you go when your vital signs are stable.

… If the block is helpful in decreasing your pain, it will probably be repeated in 2-3 weeks.

Possible Complications

… Pneumothorax (collapsed lung).

… Systemic toxic reactions, i.e., seizures.

… Bleeding

… Hemothorax (bleeding into the chest area)

… Infection

… Nerve damage

… Worsening of symptoms

Discharge Instructions

… You may experience some numbness or soreness at needle insertion sites. Regular Strength Tylenol and sleeping on a heating pad may help eliminate this.

… If you notice difficulty in getting your breath or pain upon inspiration, please go directly to your local emergency room and have the physician there give us a call.