The most common complication of a celiac plexus block is which of the following?

The most common complication of a celiac plexus block is which of the following?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Seizure
• C. Subarachnoid injection
• D. Retroperitoneal hematoma

Answer: (A)

Blocking the abdominal sympathetic nerves with a celiac plexus block causes dilation of the splanchnic vessels. This redistribution of blood leads to lower systemic vascular resistance and reduced venous return, producing a drop in blood pressure. This hemodynamic effect is the most common complication you’ll see with this procedure, often manageable with fluids or vasopressors as needed. Other issues, like seizures from local anesthetic toxicity, subarachnoid injection causing a high spinal, or retroperitoneal hematoma from vascular injury, can occur but are much less frequent.

Blocking the abdominal sympathetic nerves with a celiac plexus block causes dilation of the splanchnic vessels. This redistribution of blood leads to lower systemic vascular resistance and reduced venous return, producing a drop in blood pressure. This hemodynamic effect is the most common complication you’ll see with this procedure, often manageable with fluids or vasopressors as needed. Other issues, like seizures from local anesthetic toxicity, subarachnoid injection causing a high spinal, or retroperitoneal hematoma from vascular injury, can occur but are much less frequent.