Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Intrathecal Pump Implantation
1746876777
An intrathecal pump implantation is a surgical procedure that places a small, battery-powered device under the skin of your abdomen. This pump delivers medication directly into the fluid surrounding your spinal cord, providing targeted relief from chronic pain or spasticity. This method can be significantly more effective than taking pills because the medication goes straight to the source of the pain, requiring much smaller doses.
Before you get the pump, you'll undergo a trial phase to determine if the medication effectively relieves your symptoms. During this trial, a temporary catheter is used to deliver medication directly into your spinal fluid to see how well it works for you.
If the trial shows that the pump can help you, the surgery will be done to place the pump and connect it to a catheter in your spine. The procedure is generally safe, but risks include infection, potential issues with the catheter, or side effects from the medication.
Preparation involves ensuring you're not on blood thinners and have no active infections. After the surgery, you will need to avoid heavy lifting and be cautious of any signs of infection. You'll also have regular appointments for pump maintenance and refills, requiring a lifelong commitment to managing the device. Most people can leave the hospital the same day or may stay overnight for observation.
Overall, this procedure is a good option for individuals whose pain or spasticity hasn’t improved with other treatments.
FAQs
How do I know if I am a candidate for an intrathecal pump?
Before the pump is implanted, you will undergo a trial phase to determine the effectiveness of the medication in relieving your symptoms. During this phase, a temporary catheter administers the medication directly into your spinal fluid. If the trial demonstrates positive results, you may be considered a candidate for the permanent pump placement.
What are the risks associated with intrathecal pump implantation?
The procedure is generally safe, but it does come with some risks, including infection, catheter-related issues such as granuloma or migration, and side effects from the medication like respiratory depression. Regular monitoring is essential to mitigate these risks.
What can I expect during recovery after an intrathecal pump implantation?
Most patients can leave the hospital the same day or may need to stay overnight for observation. After the procedure, you should avoid heavy lifting and be vigilant for signs of infection. Regular appointments will be necessary for pump maintenance and refills, indicating a lifelong commitment to managing the device.
What is intrathecal pump implantation and how does it help with chronic pain or spasticity?
Intrathecal pump implantation is a surgical procedure that involves placing a small, battery-powered pump under the skin of the abdomen. This pump delivers medication directly to the intrathecal space surrounding the spinal cord, providing targeted and effective relief from chronic pain or spasticity using significantly smaller doses than oral medications.
What preparations are necessary before undergoing intrathecal pump implantation?
Preparation for the surgery includes avoiding blood thinners and ensuring there are no active infections. You'll also need to follow specific pre-surgical instructions provided by your medical team, including any guidelines regarding anesthesia.