Cost-effectiveness of intraspinal drug delivery for chronic pain

Economic considerations for intrathecal morphine pump versus alternative therapy (medical management) in chronic and cancer pain can be assessed with different economic models such as cost-minimization, cost-effectiveness, and cost-benefit analyses. The objective of each model is to estimate the direct cost of an intrathecal morphine pump as compared with other systemic treatments. The purpose of this study is to determine cost factors for various routes of delivery, particularly with regard to hospital stay, charges relating to the operation, staff salaries, postoperative care including pump replacement, routine hospital check-ups, and other possible complications that require medical care.