Outcome of Neurolytic Coeliac Plexus Block for the Relief of Pain due to Carcinoma of Pancreas: An Observational Study

Introduction: For both patients and their families, the most concerning aspect of cancer is pain. Neurolytic Coeliac Plexus Block can be used to relief the pain of the patients with pancreatic carcinoma. Aim of the Study: The aim of this study was to assess the outcome of neurolytic coeliac plexus block for the relief of pain due to carcinoma of pancreas. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Department of Anaesthesia, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh, during the period from July 2008 to June 2010. Total 50 patients with carcinoma pancreas were included in this study. Result: In this study, in group A and B the mean ± SD pain in VAS before treatment are 8.80±0.86 & 8.07±1.44 respectively. At 1st, 2nd, 7th and 15th day of treatment the mean pain in VAS of group A & group B are (2.30± 0.98 & 5.53±0.99); (2.27 ± 0.70 & 5.60 ± 1.24); (2.13± 1.13 & 6.07±1.16) and (2.27 ± 1.39 &6.40 ± 0.74) respectively. Before starting the treatment, mild anorexia was found in 7(28%) & 8(32%) cases among group A & B. Moderate anorexia was found in 10(40%) cases and 7(28%) cases in group A and group B respectively. Severe anorexia was seen in 8(32%) cases and 10(40%) cases in group A and group B respectively. In 1st day of treatment mild anorexia was found in 9(36%) and 7(28%) cases in group A and group B respectively. Moderate anorexia was found in 8(32%) and 10(40%) cases in group A and group B respectively. Anorexia was found absent by 8(32%) in both groups. At 15th day of treatment, we found mild anorexia was present in 13(52%) & 2(8%); moderate anorexia was 8(32%) & 13(52%) in group A & B respectively. Severe anorexia was found in 10(40%) cases in group B and absent in group A. Anorexia was absent in 3(12%) cases in group A and 2(8%) in group B. In group A majority of patients had moderate vomiting 10(40%) & severe vomiting 8(32%) and in group B majority of them had severe vomiting 10(40%), mild vomiting 8(32%) before starting treatment. ....