title: Implantable injection port for epidural opiates self-administration.
abstract: We organize the self administration of opiates by the epidural route on an out patients basis to relieve cancer pain. After the insertion of a percutaneous epidural catheter, we inject 3 mg of morphine sulfate and observe the patient for a duration of 24 hours in the intensive care unit. Then, an implantable, subcutaneous device is placed, connected to the epidural space by a silastic catheter placed through a 14 G Tuohy needle. After a careful training programme given at the hospital, the patient is allowed to go home. His progress is followed in the oncologic consultation unit every 15 days. The results are analysed in view of the rare side effects and of the good pain relief. The implantable port seems to be a valuable method to relieve cancer pain, but needs a rigourous technique and training.
mesh_terms: D000767:Anesthesia, Epidural / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010148:Intractable Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012646:Self Administration
chemical_list: D009020:Morphine