Intrathecal drug delivery for management of cancer and noncancer pain

Karen H. Simpson, FRCA; Iain Jones, FRCA

doi:10.5055/jom.2008.0033

Authors

Karen H. Simpson, FRCA
Iain Jones, FRCA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jom.2008.0033

Keywords:

intrathecal drug delivery, cancer pain, chronic pain

Abstract

Intrathecal drug delivery (ITDD) has been an option for the management of persistent pain since the 1980s. The discovery of opioid receptors in the central nervous system was the impetus for early attempts to deliver opioids intraspinally. Approximately, 10-20 percent patients with cancer pain get inadequate analgesia from conventional medical management; this group particularly may benefit from ITDD. However, there is also some evidence for the use of ITDD in those with noncancer pain. This review presents options for ITDD, available drugs, evidence for efficacy, principles of patient selection, and problems with the intrathecal route.

Author Biographies

Karen H. Simpson, FRCA

Consultant in Pain Medicine, Pain Management Service, Seacroft Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom.

Iain Jones, FRCA

Specialist Registrar in Anaesthesia, Pain Management Service, Seacroft Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom.

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