Intrathecal Pumps
Intrathecal Pump
An intrathecal pump is a medical device used to deliver medication via an intrathecal catheter (tube), directly into the space between the spinal cord and the protective sheath (dura mater) surrounding the spinal cord. This is the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid).
Medications such as baclofen, morphine, and ziconotide are approved for administration by the FDA. Other medications that may also be administered include hydromorphone, fentanyl, bupivacaine, and clonidine. The dose of medications required for similar or better results when delivered intrathecally, are substantially less than oral or intravenous route. This helps to reduce side effects of medications with improved pain control and functionality; the primary goal of implanting an intrathecal pump. In most cases, patients can stop oral medications.
Medical Uses
Used in patients with spasticity due to multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy.
In chronic pain conditions like post laminectomy pain syndrome and chronic pancreatitis. In addition, cancer patients with uncontrolled pain — chronic cancer pain may also benefit from this therapy.
Cancer patients with severe, difficult to control pain, and with significant side effects due to opioids may also benefit. Good pain control at the end of life is very important.
Construction
The implantable intrathecal pump is constructed from non-allergic metals. It has a few sections, including a battery, computer, a motor, and a reservoir which stores and delivers the medication. This pump is attached to a catheter via a nipple. An intrathecal catheter delivers the medication from the pump to the intrathecal space in the spine where the medication takes effect. Two types of pumps are available: a pump that delivers the medication at a constant rate, and a programmable pump delivers the medication according to a rate determined by the physician using a computer program. In addition, patients can also use a personal therapy manager. This device allows patients to deliver extra medications if needed. It reduces the need for oral breakthrough pain medication.
Also, external pumps, with or without a subcutaneous port are used for intrathecal delivery.
Before a pump is placed, a trial is conducted. Trial may be a single shot of baclofen, or placement of a temporary epidural catheter. Medications are infused. These trials may continue for a few days up to 10 days depending on the circumstances. A permanent intrathecal pump is then implanted if the patient derives at least 50% improvement in his or her symptoms.
Refills
Intrathecal pumps require maintenance. Individuals who use these pumps will need to come into their physician's office to have the pump refilled. How frequently this occurs is dependent on several factors, including drug concentration and dosage, and pump size. The refill frequency can range between one and six months for baclofen pumps.
Replacement
Intrathecal pumps periodically need to be replaced once every 6–7 years. Usually, only the pump needs to be replaced and not the catheter.
Other Procedures We Provide
At the Center for Pain Management, we offer many solutions to your pain problems, and we want you to help you consider every option you may have before you make a final decision. Click the button below to check out all the procedures we provide!
Contact Us Today!
Contact Center for Pain Management to learn more about the many ways our team can help you deal with pain. If you wish to learn more about this or any other way that pain can be dealt with and how our practice can assist you, read our blog or send us your questions. Our team will be more than happy to answer any question you may have.