title: Transdiscal approach for hypogastric plexus block.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In this study, we have performed hypogastric plexus block using a posterior transdiscal approach in 20 patients diagnosed with pelvic pain because of cancer.
  
  
  METHODS
  The L(5)-S(1) interdiscal space was identified with fluoroscopy. A needle attached to a 5-mL syringe was introduced through the disc and advanced under lateral fluoroscopic control until resistance was lost. After verifying proper position, 5 mL of 10% aqueous phenol was administered through the needle. After drawing back the needle, cephazolin 50 mg in 1 mL was administered to the disc to prevent discitis. The visual analog scale (VAS) values, daily analgesic requirements, and patient satisfaction were evaluated before the procedure, at 24 hours and then every month for 3 months after the procedure.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Disc puncture was performed without difficulty in all patients, there were no complications associated with disc puncture such as discitis or disc rupture. Twelve patients had statistically significant pain relief immediately after the block (P <.05). Fifteen patients were satisfied after the block, and their daily analgesic requirement decreased significantly. No pain relief was observed in 5 patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Transdiscal approach to the hypogastric plexus appears to be a safe and effective procedure. However, prospective randomized controlled studies comparing different approaches are needed to increase our knowledge of hypogastric plexus block.
authors.affiliation: Department of Algology, Medical Faculty of Istanbul, Istanbul University, Capa Klinikleri 34390, Istanbul, Turkey. algotur@superonline.com
authors.forename: Serdar
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Erdine
authors.forename: Aysen
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Yucel
authors.forename: Mehmet
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Celik
authors.forename: Gul K
authors.initials: GK
authors.lastname: Talu
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007001:Hypogastric Plexus / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000009:adverse effects; D010147:Pain Measurement; D017699:Pelvic Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D013131:Spine
chemical_list: D000779:Anesthetics, Local