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Intrathecal Spinal Pumps

Other Procedures

A minimally invasive surgery to implant a device that delivers pain medication directly to the spinal cord.

An intrathecal spinal pain pump is a small, surgically implanted device that delivers pain medication directly to the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. This type of pain pump is often used to treat cancer pain that is not well controlled with other methods, such as oral medications or nerve blocks. The intrathecal pain pump implantation procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision in the abdomen and insert the pump and reservoir. A thin tube, called a catheter, will then be threaded through the incision and into the spinal canal. The catheter will be positioned so that the tip rests in the intrathecal space, which is the fluid-filled space around the spinal cord. Once the catheter is in place, the surgeon will close the incision and secure the pump and reservoir to the underlying tissue. The pump will then be programmed to deliver a specific amount of medication over a period of time. Intrathecal spinal pain pumps are typically implanted for patients with cancer pain that is not well controlled with other methods, such as oral medications or nerve blocks. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. Patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery. Intrathecal spinal pain pumps are very effective at relieving cancer pain, and most patients experience a significant improvement in their quality of life. However, there are some risks associated with the procedure, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. If you are considering an intrathecal spinal pain pump implantation, be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with our Pain Specialist Doctors.

FAQS

Cancer Pain management: Myths and Facts

An intrathecal spinal pain pump is a small, implanted device that delivers pain medication directly to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. This allows for more effective pain relief with lower doses of medication and fewer side effects.

The pump is implanted under the skin of the abdomen or buttocks. It is connected to a catheter, which is a thin tube that is threaded into the spinal canal. The pump delivers medication through the catheter directly into the CSF.

The most common type of medication used in intrathecal spinal pain pumps acts directly on the receptors to control pain.

Intrathecal spinal pain pumps may be considered for people with severe cancer pain that is not controlled with other treatments, such as oral pain medications or nerve blocks.

More effective pain relief Lower doses of medication Fewer side effects Improved quality of life

Infection Bleeding Nerve damage Medication overdose Pump malfunction

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision in the abdomen or buttocks and implant the pump under the skin. The catheter will then be threaded into the spinal canal.

The battery in an intrathecal spinal pain pump typically lasts for 4 to 7 years. After that, the pump will need to be replaced.

The frequency of refills depends on the type and dosage of medication being used. Some pumps may need to be refilled every 1 to 2 months, while others may last for 6 months or more.

Patients with intrathecal spinal pain pumps will need to see their doctor regularly for refills and to have the pump monitored. It is important to keep the pump clean and to avoid activities that could damage the pump or catheter.

Intrathecal spinal pain pumps can be a very effective way to manage severe cancer pain. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before deciding if it is right for you.

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