Interventions for Refractory Pain in Cancer Patients

Abstract

Pain in patients with metastatic disease to the central nervous system sometimes requires interventional techniques to facilitate durable pain relief. In this chapter, we will note the mechanisms of pain in cancer patients and its relevance to treatment with interventional techniques. Techniques for pain relief can involve intrathecal medication delivery, spinal stimulation, and even brain-directed therapies. The therapies discussed in this chapter are of critical importance to the oncologist given the durable and reliable pain relief that these techniques may provide in carefully selected patients.