Genitofemoral Neuralgia

Category

Nerve Blocks

Genitofemoral neuralgia causes burning pain and numbness in the area supplied by the genitofemoral nerve. The nerve has two branches. The femoral branch supplies the skin of the inner and front sides of the thigh. The genital branch supplies the skin of the testicles in men and the vulva (skin of outer and inner vaginal lips and their surrounding skin) in women. 

Causes

• Burning or stabbing pain on the front or medial side of the thigh
• Burning pain on the testicular skin in males or vulva in females
• Numbness and tenderness in the above-described areas

The causes of genitofemoral neuralgia include:

• Surgeries such as abdominal, kidney, pelvic repair, etc
• Direct trauma to the nerve, such as in sports

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.