*** Lidocaine Infusion \ Note From Dr. Weimer ***

[Guest guest]

Hello All,

Last night I sent an email to the group that sort of made light of the

appointment I had at the pain clinic. and others that have been around

me know that I can have an odd sense of humor some times. Yes, I am a fan of

Letterman

Yet and still, I know that we all take pain management very seriously.

Additionally, we all take any sort of procedures seriously because they can have

tremendous consequences to our bodies. We are rather unique as CMT'ers and

should be careful about " cutting edge "

ideas presented by individuals and institutions who may not be well versed in

our disease.

That said, we should truly appreciate the email response

noted below. It was sent from Dr. Louis Weimer of Columbia to Pat Dreibelbis, at

the CMTA.

The Pain Clinic at UC Medical Center did say that the treatments would

have to be in their facility and I would be closely monitored. I am thankful

they put that offer on the table because clearly they understand the gravity of

this procedure. At the same time, because there is no clear evidence or

knowledge of this being used for neuropathic pain, I see no reason to subject

myself and my family to this. Thanks but no thanks.

All of that said, I will call the pain management clinic today and convey that I

am far from interested in such a procedure, and will remain so, until there are

more case studies available that prove is safety and effectiveness.

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and THIS is just an example of why it is

sooo beneficial to be involved with this organization.

Rashid

Lidocaine is a commonly used anesthetic and is very safe when administered

locally on the skin or by low dose local injection. Intravenous lidocaine is a

serious treatment that has potent anti-heart arrhythmia and other effects. There

is no evidence that it is more dangerous in CMT patients but adequate

justification and adequate monitoring is needed during the treatment. I have not

heard of its use for neuropathic pain in this manner.

Dr. Louis Weimer, Columbia