[Chemical rhizotomy using phenol in the treatment of perineal pain of neoplastic origin].

The Authors report the results obtained in 53 patients treated with intrathecal injections of 5% phenol in glycerin for the control of serve pain caused by rectal and genital cancer. The method used for determining the sensory roots to be blocked and the technique of drug administration are described. The effects of subarachnoid phenol blockade have been evaluated on the basis of pain relief (measured by the visual analogue test) and improved general well being. The observed results indicate that this is one of the most effective and safest procedures in the management of perineal cancer cancer pain.