Pectoral nerve block: A novel modality for managing chronic chest wall pain

Abstract

A 54-year-old male presented with chronic left-sided chest wall pain. Diagnosed as myofascial pain after ruling out other causes, he had little or no relief with the conventional treatment consisting of oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants. An ultrasound-guided pectoral nerve block (PECSB) supplemented with intramuscular stimulation (IMS) was performed, with IMS being repeated after a week. Near total pain relief was achieved, which was sustained for up to 90 days, the period for which the patient has been followed up. We conclude that PECSBs are safe, easy to perform and effective for chronic chest wall pain.

Keywords

• Chest wall pain
• interventional pain management
• intramuscular stimulation
• pectoral nerve block