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Neurolytic blocks are specialized injections that destroy specific nerves to relieve severe or chronic pain. Florida Pain Medicine, serving patients across Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Brandon, Ormond Beach, Port Orange, Tampa Bay, Riverview, Daytona Beach, and St. Petersburg, Florida, uses neurolytic blocks to help those with advanced pain conditions achieve significant relief. Their experienced team develops customized plans to improve comfort and quality of life. Contact Florida Pain Medicine by phone or online to determine if a neurolytic block is the solution you need.
Neurolytic Blocks Q & A
What is a neurolytic block?
A neurolytic block is a special type of injection used to reduce or stop pain by destroying or damaging the specific nerves transmitting pain signals.
Florida Pain Medicine uses neurolytic blocks to help patients who need stronger, longer-lasting pain relief when other treatments don’t work well enough.
How does a neurolytic block work?
During the procedure, your provider injects a chemical agent such as alcohol or phenol around the target nerve. These substances damage the nerve fibers, which stops them from carrying pain signals to the brain.
By interrupting the pain pathway, neurolytic blocks can provide significant relief that lasts from several months to over a year. Since nerves can regrow over time, the pain may eventually return. However, in the meantime, many patients experience meaningful improvement in their quality of life.
What conditions can neurolytic blocks treat?
Florida Pain Medicine uses neurolytic blocks for pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments, including:
- Severe cancer-related pain in the abdomen, pelvis, or other areas
- Chronic pancreatitis with intense abdominal pain
- Pain from advanced diseases that involve nerve compression or infiltration
- Some types of neuropathic (nerve) pain after exhausting other options
The team may recommend neurolytic blocks when pain limits daily activities, causes difficulty sleeping, or reduces overall comfort despite medications or other therapies. While results can vary, many patients experience significant pain relief soon after a neurolytic block. They also benefit from an improved ability to participate in daily activities.
What happens during a neurolytic block procedure?
During a neurolytic block, you typically lie or sit in a comfortable position, depending on where you need the injection.
Your provider uses imaging guidance like X-rays (fluoroscopy) or CT scans to precisely locate the target nerve. After numbing the skin with a local anesthetic, they guide a thin needle to the nerve area.
First, they may deliver a test dose of anesthetic to see if it reduces your pain. Then, they inject a neurolytic agent to destroy the nerve fibers. The whole procedure usually takes less than an hour, and you can often go home the same day.
If you or a loved one is struggling with severe pain, Florida Pain Medicine can help you decide if a neurolytic block might be the right choice for lasting relief. Call your nearest Tampa Bay or Daytona Beach office or schedule a consultation online today.