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IntraThecal Pain Pump Procedures

According to the American Pain Foundation, there are more than 76.5 million Americans who suffer from chronic pain. Methods of management vary greatly, ranging from mild pain intervention to invasive interventions. One invasive management option is the intrathecal medication pain pump.

  1. The Intrathecal Pump

    • The intrathecal pump is a medical device used in the management of pain. Unlikeoral medication, the medication from the pump is delivered to the spinal fluid, making it a more effective treatment for those who suffer from extreme pain that has not been managed using less invasive methods. The intrathecal or medication pump delivers less medication than it would take to orally treat pain. The pump works by delivering medication through the spinal fluid and thus disrupting pain signals sent the brain.

    Trial

    • Before the intrathecal pump is implanted, it is necessary to participate in a trial to find out of the pump will work for you. A small amount of medication is administered to the spinal fluid. There are two methods: your doctor may inject the medication and monitor you throughout the day, or a catheter may be temporarily implanted. There are minor risks involved that should be discussed with your physician.

    Permanent Intrathecal Pump

    • According to Medtronic, "as a result of the lower dose (of medication), you may also experience fewer or milder side effects, (with the possibility) of a 50 percent or greater reduction in pain." An incision is made on the back and a thin catheter is inserted into the spinal fluid. The physician then makes an incision either on the back or the abdomen, and the pump is attached to the facia, a thin layer that rests on the muscle. The catheter is attached to the pump, and all incisions are stitched. Recovery can last from 6 weeks to 3 months.

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