Intercostal Nerve Blocks
Description
Intercostal Nerve Blocks is a procedure that works by temporarily blocking or disrupting painful nerve impulses associated with non-cardiac pain in the chest wall area.
How It’s Performed
A small needle is placed just under the lowest portion of each rib that causes discomfort. Sedation may be offered for patient comfort.
Candidates For This Procedure
Patients who have pain in the rib area due to trauma either via rib fractures, repetitive overhead maneuvers, shingles-pain, coughing or unknown reasons are candidates.
How Long It Takes
10 to 20 minutes depending on how many levels need to be blocked.
Recovery
Vital signs may be observed for about 20 minutes. The patient is able to leave when vital signs are stable. You may experience some numbness or soreness at needle insertion sites.
Results
“Relief is often very rapid. Patients may require a series of injections for long term relief.
For more information on Intercostal Nerve Blocks, please visit Chicago Pain Center or schedule an appointment online.”