Iliohypogastric Neuralgia

Category

Nerve Blocks

Iliohypogastric neuralgia is the burning pain caused by the damage to the iliohypogastric nerve. The nerve supplies some belly muscles and the skin above the genitals and on the buttock. As a result, pain is felt over these areas of the body.Burning or stabbing pain in the groin, above the genitals, and buttock area is the most prominent symptom. Other symptoms include tenderness and numbness in these areas. Iliohypogastric neuralgia can weaken the abdominal muscles and lead to many complications in this area.

Causes

The iliohypogastric nerve originates alongside the ilioinguinal nerve. Hence, both nerves are damaged by the same types of causes which include:

• Damage or irritation due to abdominal surgery, kidney surgery, pelvic surgery, or inguinal repair surgery
• Blunt trauma or impact to the nerve such as in sports
• Pregnancy stretch (rare)

Treatment

• Pain killer
• Rest and modifying activities that cause pain
• Physical therapy
• Ultrasound or CT guided nerve block to interrupt nerve stimulation and relieve pain
• Surgery is the last resort to relieve pain. It involves cutting the nerve proximal to the damage or removing the whole nerve.

What does the procedure involve?

The doctor will clean the area over the region of interest and insert a small needle into the target area under imaging guidance. When it is in the correct position, they will inject the drug. They will remove the needle and cover the injection site with a small dressing.

What you are to do before procedure (Preparation)?

1. Book prior appointment if elective or get admission in causality if emergency
2. Lab investigation (*PT/INR, CBC), XRAY, CT/MRI scan and previous records.
3. 2-3 Hours fasting.
4. If you are on blood thinner like Aspirin, inform during appointment.
5. One accompanying person
6. Need to sign a consent form for procedure

Approx. Stay in hospital?

We have very fast and competent working team (Consultant, fellow, clinical assistant, technician and ward assistant) which provide you comfortable atmosphere and ease your nerves. Usual time of stay is few hours

Complications

Every procedure carries a risk, although this is extremely small. The risk of infection with this procedure is extremely small as no incisions are made in the skin.  

Resume to work?

You can resume your work after 1 day if existing disease allows.