The value of epidural analgesia in acute pancreatitis

Abstract We report on a patient with acute pancreatitis whose pain was resistant to simultaneous administration of morphine, procaine and Buscopan. This episode was complicated by development of hypertension, tachycardia, angina pectoris, ventricular arrhythmias and electrocardiographic modifications. Analgesia was provided by epidural administration of fentanyl and bupivacaine and brought about rapid resolution of all symptoms. The usefulness of epidural analgesia in acute pancreatitis is discussed.