CT-Guided Abdominal Nerve Block
CT-guided abdominal nerve block is a minimally invasive pain management procedure that uses CT imaging to precisely guide a thin needle to specific nerves in your abdomen, where anesthetic medication is injected to block pain signals. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes, and pain relief may begin within a few days and last from several weeks to months.
{"Uses CT imaging for precise needle placement","Delivers anesthetic to block pain signals","Performed by pain management specialists","Can provide relief for several months","Minimal recovery time required"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35930-7
- Short code
- CTNERVABD
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Abd Nerve block
- Category
- cardiac
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Not applicable - This is an imaging-guided procedure, not a blood collection.
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 5
- Critical range
- 2.5 N/A – 6.5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Computed Tomography (CT) guided percutaneous nerve block injection
- CPT
- 64490
- SNOMED
- 399019008
- Specimen volume
- Not applicable - This is an imaging-guided procedure.
- Stability
- Not applicable - This is an imaging-guided procedure.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this procedure?
CT-guided abdominal nerve block is a minimally invasive pain management procedure. It uses computed tomography (CT) imaging to help doctors precisely guide a thin needle to specific nerves in the abdomen. Once positioned, anesthetic medication is injected to temporarily block pain signals from that area to the brain.
How is it performed?
During the procedure, you will lie on a CT scanning table. The CT scanner helps your doctor locate the exact nerve pathways. After cleaning the skin and applying local anesthesia, a thin needle is carefully inserted toward the target nerve. The doctor may inject a contrast dye to confirm proper placement, then delivers the anesthetic medication. The entire procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.
What to expect after the procedure?
You may experience numbness in the treated area for several hours as the anesthetic takes effect. Pain relief may begin within a few days and can last from several weeks to months, depending on your condition. You should rest for the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous activities. Pain relief effects vary among individuals.
Reference range
Adult: 3.5-5.0 mmol/LN/A
Inform patient about procedure risks and benefits. Obtain informed consent. Verify allergy to contrast media if CT contrast will be used. Discontinue anticoagulants as per physician orders. Patient should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Remove metal objects that may interfere with CT imaging. Ensure adequate intravenous access if sedation is planned.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the procedure painful?
How long does the pain relief last?
Are there any risks or side effects?
Who is a good candidate for this procedure?
Do I need to fast before the procedure?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy