[Continuous subarachnoid analgesia for management of intractable cancer pain]

Four patients with severe and intractable cancer pain were treated with continuous subarachnoid analgesia (CSA). All patients underwent placement of a 32-gauge subarachnoid catheter attached to an infusion pump allowing continuous administration of local anesthetic agent and morphine. CSA produced good pain relief except in one patient. There was no severe complication, but itching developed in one patient. At present, CSA is not a routine treatment, because it may lead to severe complications. CSA produces excellent pain relief without disturbing consciousness and is recommended for the treatment of severe and intractable cancer pain.