| Factors | Intrathecal administration | Epidural administration |
| Infection rate | No difference | No difference |
| Pain relief | Recommended for long term | Recommended for short term |
| Medication dose | Lower | Higher |
| Pump refill interval | Less often | More often |
| Adverse effects | Fewer | More |
| Technical complications first 20 days | 25% | 8% |
| Technical complications long term | 5% | 55% |
| Catheter fibrosis | Minimal | More likely |
