Hypogastric Plexus Block

Hypogastric Plexus Block

The hypogastric plexus is the name of the cluster of sympathetic nerves involved in the function of the pelvic organs such as the bladder, urethra, uterus, vagina, vulva, perineum, prostate, penis, testes, rectum, and descending colon. The superior hypogastric plexus sits just in front of the vertebral column at approximately the level of the fifth vertebral level and the first sacral level. This means that the plexus is located near the lower part of your abdomen where it joins with the upper part of the pelvis.

The hypogastric plexus can be blocked for severe pain conditions arising from pelvic organs that are non-responsive to oral medications. The hypogastric block may be performed just once for diagnostic information to determine if the pelvic pain is coming from pelvic organs. In addition, these nerve blocks can sometimes be given as a series of several injections, repeated at weekly intervals, for potential therapeutic benefit.