Intrathecal morphine pump as a treatment option in chronic pain of nonmalignant origin

Abstract

Background: Implantable pumps for the delivery of intrathecal morphine have become a common option for administering opiate medication for the management of pain in patients with terminal cancer. Options for treating chronic pain of non-malignant origin are more controversial. This study describes responses to intrathecal morphine administration for managing chronic pain in patients without an underlying malignancy.

Methods: Eleven patients between the ages of 29 and 81 years, nine with failed back syndrome (FBS) and two with neuropathic pain (NP) from other causes, were chosen from 15 consecutive individuals referred to neurosurgery clinic. The presenting levels of pain and a functional-economic outcome level were determined for each patient. Patients were admitted to the hospital for therapeutic trials and were assessed for the appropriateness of their analgesic response and for adverse responses to the medication. A morphine pump was implanted in five males and six females who were followed for up to 3 years.

Results: A good to excellent analgesic response was seen in 8 (73%) patients (6 FBS; 2 NP). In the remaining three patients (27%), the analgesic response was judged poor (3 FBS). In patients with FBS, the total effective response was 67%. Two patients experienced bladder dysfunction requiring pump removal. Other adverse effects of pump placement were rare.

Conclusions: The morphine pump was found to be a viable alternative in the management of failed back syndrome. Its use in long-term therapy, however, is not without limitations and should be a last choice option.