The Benefits of A Pain Pump
Pain pumps have been used since 1981 , initially for cancer pain, they are now widely used for severe pain of non-cancer-origin in patients with normal life expectancy. Such pumps have developed from patient-activated bolus devices and constant infusion systems to complex programmable units.
Baclofen has been the most widely used drug in treating spasticity since its introduction in 1971. However, when taken orally it crosses the blood brain barrier very poorly. High blood levels of the drug are required to achieve satisfactory levels in the cerebrospinal fluid and nervous system. This often results in unpleasant side effects and lack of efficacy.
The direct intrathecal administration of baclofen was first reported in 1984 and, dose for dose, achieves a concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid approximately 400 times higher. Intrathecal baclofen has proved to be extremely effective in controlling spasticity due to spinal cord injury and diseases such as multiple sclerosis. It can also be effective in spasticity of cerebral origin — brain injury, stroke, hypoxia.
BENEFITS OF A PAIN PUMP
Usually pain patients are treated with oral medications which may include opioids. Oral medications have to pass thru our digestive system before they produce desired effect of acting on receptors for pain control. Therefore, a much higher oral dose is necessary, compared to spinal delivery of medications. In spinal delivery, the medication is delivered directly to nervous system . The usual ratio is 300:1 respectively.
Control - New pump devices give patients much more flexibility. Patients can get medication around the clock. They are also able to give themselves bolus on demand. This is similar to taking a pill, which may take up to 45min to be effective. Spinal delivery may be effective in less than 5 min.
Allows patient to be free of confusion about accountability of the pills.
Allows for a safer situation for patients and their family in today's environment of opioid crisis. And helps reduce the stigma attached to opioids.
Reduce or Eliminate Pain Medication – Most patients find that they can reduce or eliminate the use of oral pain medication, once they have in intrathecal pump implanted.
Fewer Side Effects – Intrathecal pumps typically have much fewer side effects when compared to oral pain medication, because the medication is more specifically targeted.
Flexibility – The dosage of pain medication administered through the pump can be changed as your needs change or if you experience more pain.
Trial Test – You don’t have to commit to the treatment right away. Patients undergo a trial test to see how it works for them. A decision can be made after the trial.
Not Permanent – Unlike some surgeries, like back surgery, getting an intrathecal pump does not have to be permanent. The device can be turned off or removed at a later time.
Risks
Surgical Complication – While rare, surgical complications are still possible. Some potential complications include an infection or a spinal fluid leak.
Inflammation – Some patients report inflammation in the area around the catheter.
Device Malfunction – It the device malfunctions, surgery may be needed to fix it. Some possible malfunctions include a broken catheter or the pump moving within the body. However, these are rare.
A physician should perform evaluation and trial to determine if you are good candidate for spinal pump. Contact Comprehensive Pain Centers today if you have questions or if you would like to book an appointment with one of our experienced physicians