[Ultrasound glossopharyngeal block for oropharyngeal pain management in cancer patients].

BACKGROUND

Oropharyngeal pain due to oral mucositis and base of tongue tumors is a frequent and highly disabling condition that significantly impacts quality of life. Its management is often complex, involving nociceptive, inflammatory, and neuropathic mechanisms with limited response to conventional therapy. Ultrasound-guided glossopharyngeal nerve block has emerged as a safe and effective alternative to improve analgesia.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate pain control using ultrasound-guided glossopharyngeal nerve block in patients with oral mucositis or base of tongue tumors.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

A prospective observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital, fifteen cancer patients are inlcuded with severe oropharyngeal pain associated with mucositis or base of tongue tumors. All patients underwent ultrasound-guided glossopharyngeal nerve block with local anesthetic and corticosteroid. Pain was assessed using the ENA and FLACC scales, along with evaluation of oral intake tolerance, adjuvant analgesic use, and complications.

RESULTS

Pain intensity significantly decreased from 9 to 0 at 30 minutes (p < 0.05) and remained low at 7 days. One minor complication (10%) was reported. The procedure suggested to be safe and effective.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided glossopharyngeal nerve block is a minimally invasive, is potentially safe, and effective technique for managing oropharyngeal pain in cancer patients.