Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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Objective. This article presents an overview of the use of intrathecal bupivacaine (with and without opioid), focusing on laboratory data and clinical use for chronic pain. Some background on epidural use is included to support the intrathecal literature. ⋯ In addition, outcome studies are needed specifically to differentiate use of intrathecal bupivacaine based on the source and mechanism of pain. Conclusions. While there are few long-term randomized prospective studies at this point, we conclude that intrathecal bupivacaine appears to be a safe and efficacious treatment in both cancer and noncancer pain.
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Objective. This experiment was performed to test the hypothesis that intrathecally pumped saline, but not artificial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), would be analgesic in a rat model of neuropathic pain. Materials and Methods. ⋯ No analgesia was observed on tests of spontaneous pain or pressure hyperalgesia (p > 0.1). Conclusions. Intrathecally pumped saline and artificial CSF have analgesic effects on some neuropathic and normal, nociceptive pain signs in CCI rats.
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Objectives. Our objective was to describe and analyze through a third party disinterested observer the results obtained by using motor cortex stimulation (MCS) for the treatment of central dysesthetic diffuse-distal type of paraplegic pain and intentional tremor secondary to the total removal of a cervical ependymoma. Design. ⋯ In this single case report MCS was extremely useful in eliminating almost all of the patient's pain-evoked phenomena. Both steady burning pain and tremor were also improved. This is only one case report and MCS warrants further investigation as to its utility in controlling central dysesthetic pain in paraplegia and postchordotomy dysesthesias.