Implanted continuous epidural morphine infusion system. Preliminary report.

A number of reports have shown that epidural or intrathecal administration of morphine provides pain relief. Since February, 1981, the authors have used an implantable pump and epidural catheter for continuous epidural morphine infusion in patients with chronic pain. This system has functioned well, without respiratory or infectious complications. Functional characteristics of the system, technique of implantation, and preliminary results in two patients treated by this method are presented.