Stearns, L., Boortz-Marx, R., Du Pen, S., Friehs, G., Gordon, M., Halyard, M., . . . Kiser, J. (2005). Intrathecal drug delivery for the management of cancer pain: A multidisciplinary consensus of best clinical practices. Journal of Supportive Oncology, 3, 399–408.

RESOURCE TYPE: Consensus statement

PROCESS OF DEVELOPMENT: Panel members included pain management physicians, neurosurgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and palliative care physicians.

DATABASES USED: No search engines were identified.

No level of evidence tables were submitted.

The adoption of intrathecal therapy for pain management by physicians broadens their ability to control pain and limit side effects and supports the use of intrathecal therapy for cancer pain management.

• A lack of RCTs for intrathecal pain therapy is noted
• An RCT evaluating polyanalgesia is suggested
• Studies in efficacy and safety of various agents in the spinal space
• Comparative studies of conventional medical management versus intrathecal drug delivery in patients with cancer
• Studies on cost-effectiveness