Intrathecal neurolysis for the management of refractory pain in a patient with terminal oncological disease: case report

Abstract

We report on the successful treatment of refractory cancer pain by intrathecal neurolysis using 96% absolute alcohol. A female patient with colorectal adenocarcinoma with metastases to the sacral bones, the patient had severe pain refractory to pharmacological and interventional treatment. Intrathecal neurolytic block at the L5-S1 intervertebral space was performed, she reported a significant improvement in her pain and decreased opioid use. The patient did not show deterioration of neurological functions after the procedure or associated complications, and outpatient treatment continued with a home medicine program. She remained comfortable until her death 6 weeks later. Considering that this is an accessible and cost-effective procedure, it could be a helpful alternative for the management of patients with refractory pain in the terminal stage.