Use of intraventricular and intrathecal morphine in intractable pain associated with cancer.

The use of the intraventricular or subarachnoid administration of morphine in the treatment of intractable pain secondary to cancer is described. The drug, in doses ranging from 0.33 to 4.00 mg, was administered by the percutaneous injection of an Ommaya reservoir or by a spinal tap. The duration of analgesia ranged from 36 to 150 hours. The indications for and side effects of this type of therapy are considered.