Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block

Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block

The superior hypogastric plexus is a group of nerves located near the base of the spine, near the central pelvic area. Like the ganglion impar, it controls feeling and function to the lower abdominal and pelvic area, genital area, and bladder. If you are suffering from genital, reproductive, or urinary pain, your doctor may recommend a superior hypogastric plexus block as a diagnostic and therapeutic treatment option.

This procedure is similar to other nerve blocks and involves a simple outpatient procedure. The area is first numbed, then the doctor will anesthetize the skin and will use x-ray to position a needle near the super hypogastric plexus. They will inject a dye, followed by an anesthetic solution to the area, sometimes adding a steroid, depending on the purpose of the procedure. This operation takes less than an hour and, after a brief observation period, you are free to leave, though it is recommended you get a ride to and from the appointment.

This is a safe procedure with few risks, which include bleeding, infection, or nerve damage. Inform your doctor if you are on blood thinners, are immunosuppressed, have an active infection, or are pregnant. Your doctor may use this in conjunction with another block to narrow down what is causing your pain. At Mountain View Pain Center, we work not only to treat your pain, but to correctly diagnose the cause of your pain. Contact us today to learn more!