Articles: pain.
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Technologic innovations have led to the development of new delivery systems in pain management. Prolonged-release morphine, implanted reservoirs, and external and internal infusion pumps are now employed to improve pain management techniques. These advances have allowed entry to previously inaccessible or difficult-to-enter sites such as the intravenous, subcutaneous, epidural, intrathecal, and intraventricular routes. ⋯ Future innovations will lead to further advances in pain management techniques. As integral members of the health care team, nurses must be involved in the clinical research and evaluation of these new therapies. Advanced technology and supportive nursing care can then be united to ensure optimal pain control for our patients.
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Neurolytic celiac plexus block (NCPB) is an effective method for relief of the pain of pancreatic cancer, but many physicians are reluctant to use the technique because of the perception that the incidence of complications is high. We analyzed the incidence of complications and the quality of pain relief obtained during the use of NCPB in 136 patients with pancreatic cancer. ⋯ Radiographically guided needle placement did not affect quality of pain relief or the incidence of complications. This neurolytic pain block is effective, has a low incidence of neurologic complications, and deserves more widespread use in patients with pancreatic cancer.