Interventional techniques in cancer pain: Critical appraisal

Abstract

Modern understanding of the pathophysiology of pain associated with cancer, accompanied with the improved survival rate of cancer patients, should lead to a new a critical appraisal of the role of interventional techniques used to emolliate cancer pain. A critical appraisal with evidence-based analysis will confirm that some techniques can have a better outcome than just pharmacological therapy. Celiac plexus blocks, neuraxial infusions, and vertebroplasty have been used with good analgesic efficacy as well as good overall improved outcomes for cancer pain patients. Interventional therapy should be planned as part of a comprehensive multimodal approach in cancer pain management that encompasses pharmacological, psychological, and behavioral therapy in equal measures and not as either or modality or, even worse, when all other treatment has failed.