The use of spinal opioids in cancer pain

Abstract

Approximately two-thirds of cancer patients suffer from significant pain. Until recently, less expensive and less costly conservative treatments have been utilized to treat these patients' pain, but the outcomes have been poor, with many experiencing inadequate pain relief. Although intraspinal opioid therapy is relatively new and more invasive than traditional treatments, it can provide most cancer patients better pain relief with less side effects. Intraspinal opioids can be used successfully to treat intractable malignant pain states.