Continuous intrathecal meperidine via an implantable infusion pump for chronic, nonmalignant pain

OBJECTIVE: To report a continuous infusion of intrathecal meperidine via an implanted infusion pump for nonmalignant, chronic pain. CASE SUMMARY: A 69-year-old white woman had chronic, nonmalignant low-back pain and bilateral leg pain. Multiple drug therapies and other interventional techniques had failed. The patient achieved significant pain relief by a continuous infusion of intrathecal meperidine via an implanted infusion pump. DISCUSSION: To our knowledge, this is the first report of meperidine administered intrathecally by continuous infusion. Continuous infusion of intrathecal and epidural opiates by implanted infusion pumps is becoming more widely recognized as an alternative treatment for patients with chronic, benign pain. Epidural and intrathecal meperidine is an effective analgesic for short-term surgical procedures. Data reporting effective relief and safety with continuous intrathecal meperidine remain limited. CONCLUSIONS: Continuous intrathecal meperidine via an implantable infusion pump may be an effective alternative in the treatment of chronic pain.