Experts at Sheba Medical Center in Israel have pioneered a new high-dose radiation therapy targeting the celiac plexus nerve, which significantly reduces the severe pain associated with pancreatic cancer.
This innovative treatment, now included in U.S. guidelines, offers patients a crucial reprieve from suffering while they undergo life-saving therapies.
Pancreatic cancer, known for its aggressive nature and high mortality rates, often causes intense pain due to its proximity to the celiac plexus nerve. The new method was detailed in The Lancet, highlighting its potential to improve patient quality of life.
Traditionally, severe pain from pancreatic cancer was managed with pain medications or, in cases resistant to drugs, through invasive techniques such as the Celiac Block, which involves injecting anesthetics into the celiac plexus nerve.
Dr. Jacob Lawrence, leading the research at Sheba Medical Center’s Radiation Institute, has spearheaded a new study in partnership with the Israel Cancer Association. This innovative research focuses on a single high-dose X-ray radiation session targeting the nerve responsible for intense pain, representing a significant advancement in pain management for this challenging condition.
* The Jerusalem Post contributed to this article
