Splanchnicnerveistäjä

Splanchnicnerveistäjä refers to the surgical denervation of the splanchnic nerves. The splanchnic nerves are part of the sympathetic nervous system and innervate the abdominal viscera, playing a role in regulating functions such as digestion, blood flow to the organs, and pain sensation from these areas. Splanchnic nerve block or denervation is typically considered in cases of severe, intractable abdominal pain originating from the pancreas, stomach, or intestines, where conventional medical treatments have failed.

The procedure aims to interrupt the transmission of pain signals from these abdominal organs to the brain. Historically, this was achieved through more invasive surgical techniques, but newer methods often involve nerve blocks, where anesthetic or neurolytic agents are injected near the splanchnic nerves. These blocks can be temporary or more permanent, depending on the agent used. Complications can include those associated with any surgical or interventional procedure, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding structures. The effectiveness and risks are carefully weighed against the severity of the patient's pain and potential benefits.