Canadian journal of surgery. Journal canadien de chirurgie
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For several years opioids have been given epidurally with success to control chronic intractable pain. The authors report their 2-year experience with internalization of the epidural catheter and injection port in 18 patients at University Hospital, Saskatoon. In all, 21 devices were used. ⋯ Blockage of the epidural end of the device was the most common mechanical problem, followed by leakage from the port. One patient suffered meningitis after 11 days as a result of subarachnoid placement of the catheter but responded to removal of the device and antibiotic therapy. The authors have been impressed with the excellent pain relief afforded to many of these patients, and their ability to enjoy life free of the sedative effects of other methods of narcotic administration.