Superior/Inferior Hypogastric Plexus Injection

A Superior/inferior hypogastric plexus injection is used to help block pelvic pain. The superior hypogastric plexus is found just in front of the lower lumbar spine, between the L5 and S1, and innervates much of the pelvic area, like the bladder, descending colon, urethra, and rectum. The inferior hypogastric plexus is a group of nerves that surrounds the pelvic organs.

This procedure is typically performed with the patient laying face down, however if this causes the patient too much pain they may be instructed to lie on their side. When the patient is laying down, a pillow is placed under the pelvis to flatten the curve of the lower back. Local anesthetic is given at where the entry points of the needles will be. Fluoroscopy will be used to guide the needles into the correct position where the anesthetic is injected. The procedure usually takes no more than 15 minutes.