Pain management
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Modulation of serum BDNF levels in postherpetic neuralgia following pulsed radiofrequency of intercostal nerve and pregabalin.
To study the modulation of serum BDNF levels following integrated multimodal intervention in postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). ⋯ Integrated multimodal therapy using minimally invasive pulsed radiofrequency and pregabalin in PHN was effective in early pain reduction with elevated serum BDNF levels.
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The rise of opioid prescriptions and associated deaths ('opioid epidemic') in North America has evoked worldwide discussions on the long-term efficacy and safety of long-term opioid therapy (LtOT) for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP). We discuss if the opioid epidemic is a real worldwide or a more North American phenomenon. ⋯ We discuss similarities and differences of recent North American and European guidelines on LtOT for chronic CNCP. We point out potential indications and contraindications of LtOT in CNCP syndromes.
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This analysis compared opioid-related adverse events (ORADEs) observed with fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system (ITS) versus morphine intravenous (iv.) patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) in the management of postoperative pain. ⋯ Fentanyl ITS, in the management of acute postoperative pain, offered safety advantages in terms of ORADEs compared with morphine iv. PCA.