Accuracy and efficacy of intrathecal administration of morphine sulfate for treatment of intractable pain using the Prometra(®) Programmable Pump.

OBJECTIVES

Intrathecal infusion pumps are increasingly used to deliver analgesics for chronic intractable pain. This trial evaluated the accuracy and efficacy of the new Prometra® Programmable Pump System for intrathecal administration of morphine sulfate to treat chronic intractable pain.

METHODS

One hundred and ten patients were given continuous intrathecal morphine sulfate and assessed monthly for up to six months. Accuracy was determined as the ratio of delivered to programmed drug volume (DP ratio). Efficacy was assessed using the visual analog and numeric rating scales and the Oswestry Disability Index.

RESULTS

The mean accuracy of the Prometra pump was 97.1%, with a 90% confidence interval of 96.2-98.0%. Decreases in pain and disability were reported at 68.4% of patient visits. No unanticipated adverse events or device complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

The Prometra pump provides an accurate, effective, and safe system for intrathecal administration of morphine sulfate for treatment of chronic intractable pain.