Lumbosacral DREZotomy for oncologic pain treatment: a case-based review

Childs Nerv Syst. 2023 Jan;39(1):41-45. doi: 10.1007/s00381-022-05622-4. Epub 2022 Aug 15.

Abstract

Purpose: To present 3 cases of oncologic pain treated by DREZotomy in the pediatric population and to review the literature published about this procedure.

Methods: The permanent literature about oncologic pain treatment in children and the applicability of DREZotomy was reviewed. Three cases treated at our institution were reviewed and presented.

Results: In the pediatric population, the DREZotomy has been extensively applied for the treatment of spasticity and spasticity-related pain. Currently, there are no reports of oncologic pain treated by means of a DREZotomy in children. We presented 3 cases coursing the terminal stage of illness, presenting predominantly neuropathic, oncologic pain that were successfully managed after a DREZotomy was performed.

Conclusion: In well-selected patients, with a good general condition and life expectancy to withstand an open neurosurgical procedure, DREZotomy is an excellent tool to treat neuropathic oncologic pain.

Keywords: Cancer pain; Dorsal root entry zone; Neuropathic pain; Pediatric pain; Pediatric palliative care.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Neuralgia* / surgery
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Spinal Nerve Roots* / surgery