Outcome of patients with chronic abdominal pain referred to chronic pain clinic

OBJECTIVE: We determined the outcome of patients with chronic abdominal pai n of unknown etiology referred by gastroenterologists to a chronic pain cli nic. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of 43 consecutive patients seen by a university-based gastroenterology group was referred to our Chronic Pain Cl inic for evaluation and treatment. Pain character and location, the referri ng diagnosis, and initial Chronic Pain Clinic diagnosis was compared betwee n responders and nonresponders. Early and long-term pain relief was scored by standard questionnaire. RESULTS: Of the 43 patients with chronic abdominal pain of undetermined eti ology, 70% reported complete or substantial pain relief by the end of chron ic pain management. Pain character and location and the referring diagnosis were not predictors of pain relief. Long-term pain relief was reported by 35% of patients. CONCLUSION: A substantial group of patients with chronic abdominal pain of unknown etiology benefited from Chronic Pain Clinic services. (C) 2000 by A m. Coll. of Gastroenterology).