NEUROLYTIC BLOCKS

Neurolytic blocks are an innovative intervention in pain management, involving the accurate administration of neurolytic medications, specifically target nerves that transmit pain signals which, when blocked by neurolytic agents, can result in longer lasting nerve blockade and hence longer lasting pain control.

This minimally invasive procedure disrupts nerve function, offering substantial and continuing relief for conditions like cancer-related pain or severe persistent pain syndromes like some forms of inoperable osteoarthritis.  

By selectively blocking pain signals, neurolytic blocks provide targeted relief, significantly reducing discomfort.  

These specialised procedures can offer lasting relief from chronic pain, unlocking the potential for improved comfort and quality of life.

Whilst neurolytic blocks have historically been used to just treat severe cancer pain syndromes, nowadays neurolytic blocks have been adapted to treat some forms of severe chronic pain conditions as well as severe arthritic conditions.  

Neurolytic blocks for cancer pain: 

Several neurolytic blocks can be utilised to manage cancer pain, particularly in cases like pancreatic cancer, abdominal cancer, pelvic cancer and others.  

Some of the commonly used blocks include: 

  • Celiac Plexus Block: Targeting the celiac plexus, this block aims to alleviate abdominal pain associated with pancreatic cancer or other abdominal cancers. By interrupting the pain signals from the nerves in this area, it can offer relief for abdominal discomfort. 

  • Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block: This block targets the nerves in the lower abdomen, offering relief from pelvic or lower abdominal pain commonly experienced in some types of cancer, including gynaecological cancers or cancers affecting the pelvic region. 

  • Ganglion Impar Block: Focusing on the ganglion impar, a bundle of nerves at the base of the spine, this block is effective in managing perineal and rectal pain that might occur due to certain cancers. 

  • Thoracic or Lumbar Sympathetic Blocks: These blocks target the sympathetic nerves in the thoracic or lumbar regions of the spine, often used to manage pain associated with certain types of cancers affecting these areas. 

Neurolytic blocks for non-cancer pain:  

Neurolytic alcohol agents can be utilised for various non-cancer pain blocks, particularly in chronic pain conditions. 

Sometimes where conventional therapeutic measures fail to optimise pain control, additional techniques are required to achieve enhanced functional capacity, physical, and psychological well-being, and enhanced quality of life for patients with chronic pain.  

In these cases, chemical neurolytic techniques can be used. 

Some of these blocks include: 

  • Joint blocks: Neurolytic joint blocks offer targeted relief for severe inoperable osteoarthritis-related pain in shoulder, hip, and knee joints. By targeting specific joints, neurolytic blocks aim to enhance mobility and improve the quality of life for individuals with osteoarthritis pain. 

  • Sympathetic Blocks: Neurolytic agents can be used in sympathetic nerve blocks to manage chronic pain conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), where they are applied to the sympathetic nerves to alleviate pain and improve function. 

  • Occipital Nerve Blocks: For conditions like occipital neuralgia or chronic headaches originating from the occipital nerves, neurolytic alcohol agents can be employed to block these nerves and alleviate discomfort. 

  • Intercostal Nerve Blocks: In cases of chronic rib pain, intercostal nerve blocks using neurolytic agents can provide relief by targeting the nerves between the ribs, reducing pain signals from these areas. 

Remember any pain treatment approach’s greatest success occurs when it is used as indicated in patients who are well informed as part of a well-designed pain treatment plan of action. 


Pain Specialists Australia offers a variety of pain management treatment approaches for chronic pain.

Reach out today to discuss your options. Click the Contact Us button below to get in touch with our friendly team.



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We recognise that your pain affects your ability to do the things that make you who you are. We manage the impact that pain has on your world.
— Dr Nick Christelis