Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Intrathecal (IT) trial is a prognostic interventional pain management procedure employed to determine the potential success of treating intractable pain with an implantable infusion device system. There is a dearth of data regarding trials with continuous infusion of combination therapy (e.g. opioid combined with local anesthetic). The objective of the this study was to determine the overall outcomes of continuous infusion IT trials and factors influencing long-term success of IT therapy in patients with chronic intractable pain post-laminectomy. ⋯ Patients with refractory low back pain due to FBSS who underwent successful combination IT trial with hydromorphone and bupivacaine infused through a temporary IT catheter had significantly improved pain intensity scores following permanent implant. Higher pre-trial MEDD was correlated with higher trial and post-implant opioid doses and higher rates of opioid dose escalation post-implant.
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The localization of the reservoir fill port of Intrathecal Drug Delivery Devices (IDDS) can be difficult. The purpose of this study was to assess the ease of fill port access during the ultrasound-guided refill technique compared to the blind refill technique in IDDSs with a raised septum on the pump surface. ⋯ The results of this study suggest that for a RS-IDDS the blind refill technique needs significantly less attempts to enter the reservoir fill port than the US-guided refill technique.
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Cancer pain is common and difficult to treat, as conservative medical management fails in approximately 20% of patients for reasons such as intolerable side-effects or failure to control pain. Intrathecal drug delivery systems (IDDS), while underutilized, can be effective tools to treat intractable cancer pain. This study aims to determine the degree of pain relief, efficacy, and safety of patients who underwent IDDS implantation at a multidisciplinary pain clinic. ⋯ IDDS has the potential to improve cancer pain in a variety of patients and should be strongly considered as an option for those with cancer pain intractable to conservative medical management.