Advances in cancer pain management: A review of patient-controlled analgesia

Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) is a. relatively new approach that has primarily been used to treat acute postoperative pain. A review of PCA is presented with a compilation of the devices, various dosage regimens, and opioids used with this technique. The limitations of the published trials evaluating PCA therapy are addressed. Further studies are needed to assess the role of PCA in cancer patients, ambulatory patients, and those receiving opioids via the subcutaneous or spinal route.