An unusual sign of catheter migration: sciatica.

Implantation of an intrathecal infusion pump is now accepted as a valuable technique to treat chronic pain. The most frequently reported complications associated with it are catheter fractures or migrations, usually resulting in a recurrence of pain and the onset of withdrawal symptoms. Recently, the neurologic complication of development of a catheter-tip mass has been observed. The unusual complication of intradural catheter migration responsible for sciatica is presented here. Treatment consisted of catheter replacement, leading to immediate disappearance of the sciatica.