What is an Intercoastal Nerve Block?
An intercostal nerve block is a procedure in which the nerves located under your ribcage are targeted to reduce pain in your chest and/or torso. When your intercostal nerves become irritated they can cause significant pain. A local anesthetic and corticosteroid are injected around the nerves to help reduce swelling and irritation and provide relief for the patient. Typically, intercostal nerve blocks are used as a diagnostic procedure to determine if you would benefit from an intercostal nerve radiofrequency ablation.
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Who is a candidate for Intercostal Nerve Blocks?
Patients who have chest and/or torso pain that has not responded well to conservative treatments, including but not limited to rest, medications, and physical therapy may be a candidate for an intercostal nerve block. During your initial consultation your physician will review your medical history, as well as perform a physical examination to help determine if you would benefit from this procedure.
How is an Intercostal Nerve Block performed?
We perform intercostal nerve blocks in our procedure suite. Using ultrasound guidance, your physician will target your intercostal nerves. Once the nerve is visualized and the needle has been placed next to the nerve a combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroids will be injected into the area. Immediately after the procedure the local anesthetic will provide pain relief for several hours. The corticosteroids will begin working in 3-5 days and work to reduce inflammation of the nerve.
If you are experiencing chest and/or torso pain that has not responded to conservative treatments, an intercostal nerve block may provide you with relief. Contact our midtown Manhattan office today to book a consultation and discuss this treatment with one of our providers!
