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Intrathecal analgesic drug therapy
Alan Farrow-Gillespie1, Kimberly M Kaplan
1Stanford Pain Management Center, Stanford University Medical Center, CA 94305, USA.
Current Pain and Headache Reports
|February 28, 2006
Summary
Intrathecal analgesic infusion therapy using implantable pumps offers a sophisticated option for severe chronic pain unresponsive to other treatments. This review covers patient selection, monitoring, and available intrathecal medications.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Neurosurgery
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chronic severe pain impacts quality of life.
- Traditional therapies are often insufficient.
- Implantable pump systems offer targeted pain relief.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review patient selection criteria for intrathecal therapy.
- To outline monitoring protocols for pump systems.
- To summarize available intrathecal medications and combinations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of intrathecal analgesic infusion therapy.
- Analysis of patient selection and monitoring best practices.
- Compilation of data on intrathecal medications.
Main Results:
- Specific patient profiles benefit from intrathecal therapy.
- Systematic monitoring ensures treatment efficacy and safety.
- A range of medications and combinations are available.
Conclusions:
- Intrathecal analgesic infusion is a viable option for refractory chronic pain.
- Careful patient selection and monitoring are crucial.
- Understanding medication options optimizes treatment outcomes.
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