[Pumps and access ports in the drug therapy of pain]

Advances in the technology of infusion pumps and ports have opened a new spectrum of indications. The choice of the device is dependent on the specific indication. The PCA concept (patient-controlled analgesia) has made a more individualized pain therapy possible. Recent developments are aimed at substituting the individual on-demand bolus with adaptations in steady-state serum concentrations of analgesics using BET (bolus-elimination transfer) programming. As demonstrated in several studies, ports can be safely used for chronic pain treatment. However, as with the use of infusion pumps, the indications for use must be evaluated carefully and especially-trained staff is a prerequisite for success.