Ganglion impar block in chronic cancer-related pain - A review of the current literature

J Oliveira; G Bem; A Agrelo

doi:10.1016/j.redare.2024.04.013

Ganglion impar block in chronic cancer-related pain - A review of the current literature

Rev Esp Anestesiol Reanim (Engl Ed). 2024 Apr 24:S2341-1929(24)00081-7. doi: 10.1016/j.redare.2024.04.013. Online ahead of print.

Authors

J Oliveira¹, G Bem², A Agrelo³

Affiliations

¹ Anesthesiology and Critical Care Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto Francisco Gentil, Porto, Portugal. Electronic address: jpo270593@gmail.com.
² Anesthesiology and Critical Care Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto Francisco Gentil, Porto, Portugal.
³ Anesthesiology and Critical Care Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto Francisco Gentil, Porto, Portugal; Pain Unit, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Department, Instituto Português de Oncologia do Porto Francisco Gentil, Porto, Portugal.

PMID: 38670492
DOI: 10.1016/j.redare.2024.04.013

Abstract

Oncologic chronic pain is often difficult to control, especially in anatomical areas with multiple and complex innervation, such as the pelvic/perineal region. The ganglion impar block (GIB) is a procedure with growing interest and varied applicability. It has been used in several benign and malignant causes of pelvic and perineal pain refractory to pharmacological treatment. We conducted a review of all articles published in PUBMED® until the 30th of October 2022 regarding GIB in oncologic pain. 19 articles were identified with a total of 278 patients. Both chronic cancer pain and chronic postcancer treatment pain patients were included. We reviewed the various techniques, approaches, and therapeutic options that were employed. No serious adverse effects were reported. GIB appears to be an effective and safe procedure that should be considered in patients with intractable perineal cancer-related pain.

Keywords: Bloqueo del ganglio impar; Cancer pain; Chronic pain; Dolor crónico; Dolor de cáncer; Dolor pélvico; Ganglio impar; Ganglion impar; Ganglion impar block; Ganglios simpáticos; Pelvic pain; Sympathetic ganglia.

Publication types

Review