Use of intrathecal morphine for postoperative pain relief following lumbar spine surgery

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Abstract
✓ A randomized prospective double-blind trial of intrathecal morphine for postoperative pain relief following lumbar spine surgery is described. Intrathecal morphine significantly reduced the mean pain score in the postoperative period (p < 0.01) and there was a corresponding significant reduction in the need for additional postoperative analgesia (p < 0.05). The possible mechanism of action of intrathecal morphine and the potential advantages of this technique are discussed. Possible side effects are also considered, and caution is urged until wider experience has been obtained.