Premium
Use of an implantable drug delivery system for refractory chronic sickle cell pain
Author(s) -
Smith Thomas J.,
Coyne Patrick J.,
Smith Wally R.,
Roberts John D.,
Smith Virginia
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
american journal of hematology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.456
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1096-8652
pISSN - 0361-8609
DOI - 10.1002/ajh.20252
Subject(s) - medicine , refractory (planetary science) , clinical trial , chronic pain , drug , randomized controlled trial , anesthesia , surgery , pharmacology , physical therapy , physics , astrobiology
An increasing number of chronic sickle cell patients are being treated with sustained‐release opioids in the same manner as cancer patients. In a randomized clinical trial of patients with refractory cancer pain, implantable intrathecal drug delivery systems (IDDS) improved clinical success compared to comprehensive medical management alone. We implanted IDDS pumps in two sickle cell patients with refractory bone pain. Both patients achieved rapid and sustained relief of pain, with dramatic reduction in the use of as‐needed opioids, crises, and admissions. IDDS may offer relief for sickle cell patients with refractory pain. A prospective trial with more participants is planned. Am. J. Hematol. 78:153–154, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.