title: Intrathecal infusion systems for treatment of chronic low back and leg pain of noncancer origin.
abstract: In this study, 26 patients (average age, 44.3 years) with chronic noncancer pain averaging 115 months' duration had implantation of an infusion pump with intrathecal catheter placement. In general, preservative-free morphine sulfate was used. Average follow-up was 23 months. Measurements of pain reduction, activity improvement, oral medication use, and overall satisfaction by patient, spouse, and clinic staff were obtained. Of the 26 patients, 20 noted a good or excellent outcome. Average daily dosage of intrathecal morphine increased over time by approximately sevenfold. Subjective pain levels decreased an average of 59%, and daily functioning increased 50%. No postoperative complications were noted, but 11 patients required additional surgery (9 for catheter complications). These data support chronic spinal opiate therapy as an option for safe and long-term management of noncancer pain.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management Services, HealthSouth Medical Center, Birmingham, Ala, USA.
authors.forename: U
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Tutak
authors.forename: D M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Doleys
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015918:Infusion Pumps, Implantable; D007866:Leg; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D009020:Morphine