Pardon me while I pick my jaw up off the floor. I had actually typed that exact analogy referring to the FL doctor's treatment and admonishment. Then I deleted it.

From reading what you've had to say about it in your own words, I can't help but get the impression that you may be leaning (even if only just a little) toward the AK option. This may have to do with distance, or hope, or something else, or I could be reading that entirely wrong.

I also didn't get the impression that the epidural pump idea was the only tool in the PM doctor's 'medical bag of tricks'.

Nevertheless, the question still begs, why is the cervical epidural so risky in this case, and can you make an informed decision/evaluation without that information? Even more relevant, does the alluded to risk pertain to the spread of your CRPS or is it the usual risks of the procedure (not related to CRPS)?

There's a thread in the spinal forum now about other epidurals, the prevailing wisdom seeming to be that they should be done accompanied by fluoroscopy to make sure the needle is going where it's supposed to. Apparently this is not always done, and some complications are being attributed to that. It's not the exact same procedure (because of the pump) but there may be other discussions/threads about the procedure in the archives as well, and/or people who have experience/knowledge of it. (Same for the CRPS forum).

I also googled: cervical epidural risks

One article that stood out was a study from a medical malpractice insurance company (as opposed to a health insurance company) that concluded with some advice to practitioners for avoiding complications, including the aforementioned fluoroscopy. I do not know if any of this applies to your situation. It does not mention CRPS or RSD or pumps.
http://www.thedoctors.com/KnowledgeC.../CON_ID_000192

You might also try this search:
Google: continuous cervical epidural risks crps

I don't wish to sway you either way. I only want for you to be able to make the best informed decision you can, without fear or bad/lack of information. Pain, frustration, anger, uncertainty, fear... these things I understand.

Doc