[Continuous drug infusion in terminal cancer]

Abstract

Today's technology provides portable pumps which facilitate continuous infusion of drugs to relieve suffering in terminal disease. Subcutaneous and epidural infusion is now frequently used in our hospital. The most common indications are gastrointestinal obstruction, impaired absorption of drugs, refractory side effects of oral medication or poor compliance because good pain relief is no longer possible orally. During the last days of life, this method may be the only possible approach to good comfort and relief from terminal agitation and anxiety. Of the patients referred to the advisory group for seriously ill and dying in 1990, 64% received subcutaneous infusions and 15% epidural infusions during the last days or weeks of life. Continuous infusion of drugs from portable pumps has become an almost indispensible method of treatment in an ordinary clinic.