Definitions

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+ Intrathecal & Epidural Narcotic Infusions +
(implantable pumps)

• What is an Intrathecal Pump Implant (“Spinal Morphine Pump”)?
  An Intrathecal Pump is a small device which infuses pain medicine into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord through a small plastic tubing. This device is totally contained under the skin


• Am I a candidate for a Pump?
  You may be a candidate if you have:
  • Chronic and severe pain and have not responded effectively to oral medications or interventions or do not tolerate the side effects
  • The most common indication is for chronic low back pain after failed back surgery
  • If you have spastic disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Spinal Cord Injury - associated with muscle spasms, you may be a candidate for a Baclofen infusion. (Typically done by a neurologist)


• What is the purpose of it?
  Since the medicine is being delivered to the spinal cord, a reduced amount of medication is needed. This can help minimize the need for oral medication, break through pain medicines, and side effects


• How is it done?
  You will first undergo a single injection trial to see if this form of pain control will be effective for you. There are two phases: a trial phase (single injection of a drug(s) injected into the spine, or alternatively, a continuous infusion of drugs thru a trial spinal catheter placed with x-ray guidance). If it is successful, then the permanent device is placed (implanted) under the skin. You will first undergo a psychological profile screening prior to having any implant placed


• How long does the procedure take?
  The surgery is performed in a hospital or surgery center and usually takes 1-2 hours. You will typically stay overnight for monitoring and safety reasons


• Will the procedure hurt?
  Some discomfort is involved with the procedure but we will use local anesthesia (numbing medicine) as well as intravenous sedation to make the procedure more tolerable. You may or may not remember anything from the procedure


• Where is the tubing inserted? Where is the pump placed?
  Tubing is inserted in the midline at the lower back. The pump is then placed on the side of the abdomen


• How long will the pumps last?
  The medicine in the pump can last from 1-3 months depending on the amount required. The pump will be refilled before it is empty in the office by inserting a needle in the pump reservoir. The batteries in the pump can last 3-5 years. After this time, the pump battery will need to be replaced usually via outpatient surgery


• Where can I get additional information?
  More detailed information is available from the manufacturer of this device. At the time of consultation you will receive a Synchromed™ Infusion System Patient Education Booklet. Additional information is also available at the Medtronic™ Web Site at medtronic

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