The role of patient-controlled analgesia in the management of chronic pain

This paper reviews the concept of the use of PCA as an option for the management of chronic pain in an appropriate patient population. It does so from the point of view of medical need, i.e., the optimal management of pain. We fully recognize, however, that there are also potential negatives and consequences that could arise from the point of view of misuse, abuse, and diversion. It is our hope that this paper stimulates not only a discussion of the use of PCA for chronic pain patients, but also a discussion about how best to balance medical need vs. inappropriate use.