Ilioinguinal and Iliohypogastric Nerve Block
People who have undergone lower abdominal surgery (such as an open appendectomy or c-section) can sometimes feel pain in their lower abdomen, groin, and inner thighs. Effective treatment for such pain is an ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block.
What is ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block?
Ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block is a pain relief procedure targeting the ilioinguinal (II) and iliohypogastric (IH) nerves that line the lower abdomen joining the pelvis. An anesthetic is injected into the two nerves to block pain signals.
This procedure is for treating chronic lower abdominal and groin pain after surgery. It can also be used to diagnose chronic hip, pelvic, and groin pain.
How is ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block performed?
An ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block starts with the patient lying on their back. The doctor cleans the patient’s abdomen with an antiseptic, placing a sterile drape over the area afterward.
The treatment proceeds in either of two ways:
- Landmark technique — The doctor makes anatomical landmarks on the patient’s lower abdominal area by hand to determine the location of the II and IH nerves.
- Imaging guidance — The doctor uses either an x-ray or ultrasound device to determine the location of the II and IH nerves.
With the injection site determined, the doctor uses a needle to inject an anesthetic around the nerves. In cases where inflammation needs to be reduced, cortisone is also injected near the nerves.
Finally, a dressing is placed on the injection point.
Is ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block right for you?
If you suffer from ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve injury after an open appendectomy or C-section, an ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block may be the procedure for you. Talk to our expert pain management doctor at Torrance Pain Institute for an ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block in Torrance.