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Pain Pump
(Intrathecal Pump)
An Intrathecal Pump (aka Spinal Pump, Cancer Pain Pump) is an implanted device with a reservoir of medications that are infused directly into the spinal fluid. This device bathes the spinal cord and nerves with a medication that has been chosen and tailored to your specific pain needs. The on-board computer is programmable and medication doses can be adjusted as your needs change.
The surgery to implant this device is similar to a pacemaker implant, which is tolerated well by most patients. The most common Intrathecal Pumps are MRI safe (ask our doctors). The medication is refilled by accessing the pump reservoir using ultrasound guidance. This can be done in our office and usually occurs every 3 months.
One of our providers was involved with the original research for evaluating intrathecal pumps for pain outcomes which showed:
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Patients experienced a higher quality of life.
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Patients had fewer medication side effects.
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Patients had lower pain levels.
Here is the full text article of that research.
Here is a link to the Medtronic Intrathecal Pump for more information.
Also here is the manufacturer's information on what to expect.
Our doctors are dedicated to the relief of cancer pain.
Please schedule a consultation with one of our providers to see if this is an option for you.
Intrathecal Pump Postop Instructions:
Post Anesthesia:
If you received anesthesia/sedation for the remainder of the day you so you should NOT make critical decisions or sign any legal documents. You should NOT consume alcohol. You should NOT drive or operate heavy machinery.
Medications:
You may be prescribed a post-operative medications, if so take as instructed. If you are on a blood thinner speak with your doctor about when to resume.
Incision Care:
If there is a dressing, you may remove it 24 hours after surgery BEFORE your shower. If surgical glue is used expect it will slowly peel off within 14 days. Please call us with any changes or concerns such as: redness, swelling or drainage at incision site, or temperature greater than 101°. (Clear liquid drainage in the first 24 hours is normal) .
Bathing:
You may shower 24 hours after surgery after the dressing is removed; avoid scrubbing the incision site for the first 7 days. No baths or swimming until approved by the physician or physician assistant at your follow up appointment.
Restrictions:
For 1 week after surgery:
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No excessive bending or twisting
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No strenuous activity such as running, jogging, golfing other recreational sports or sexual activity.
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No lifting greater than 10lbs
Exercise:
Increase your light activity each day, such as walking, as tolerated.
Diet:
Eat a healthy diet to promote healing.
Smoking:
No smoking. Smoking decreases the rate of bone and skin healing and also interferes with the effectiveness of pain medication.
Driving:
You may drive the day after the procedure if you feel okay to do so. Do not drive if you are taking pain medications.
Follow-Up:
You may have incisional pain that the pump will not treat. You will have a post-operative appointment approximately 14 days after surgery. If you have not already made your follow-up appointment, call your surgeons office to make one.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our office triage line at 734-373-7246. If it is AFTER HOURS call the answering service at 734-572-7418.