SUMMARY
Intrathecal infusion of medications allows for a direct delivery of agents to the receptors in which they act. This method of treatment is indicated in severe chronic pain of cancer or noncancer origin. In recent years, the use of these devices has increased and the general pain physician, referring doctor and concerned parties such as insurers, needs a better understanding of safety and efficacy. This article is an overview of this therapeutic option and also provides an update on new innovations and forward thinking approaches at improving patient selection and appropriateness of use.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
J Pope is a consultant for Medtronic, Flowonix, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Mallinkrodt Pharmaceuticals, St Jude and Spinal Modulation. T Deer is a consultant for Medtronic, Flowonix, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, St Jude and Spinal Modulation. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.