Coeliac plexus block with alcohol for relief of upper abdominal pain due to cancer.

One hundred cases of coeliac plexus block in which absolute alcohol was used as a sclerosing agent, performed over a period of 10 years between 1963 and 1973, are analysed. A success rate of 91% in relieving the pain of advanced intra-abdominal malignant disease is claimed and reasons for failures are advanced. The technique described is relatively simple and a 3-day hospital stay is all that is required. It is recommended that this procedure be carried out before the invalid is subjected to repeated injections of narcotic drugs or any form of surgery for pain relief.