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For patients with severe, chronic pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments, pain pumps may offer lasting relief. At Desert Pain Specialists in Rancho Mirage, California, Roland Reinhart, MD, and Meaghan Berglund, PA-C, implant intrathecal drug delivery systems that send medication directly to the spinal fluid. This allows for smaller doses, fewer side effects, and more consistent pain control. Call Desert Pain Specialists or request a consultation online today.
Pain Pumps Q & A
What is a pain pump?
A pain pump, also called an intrathecal drug delivery system, is a small medical device implanted under the skin that delivers pain medication directly to the fluid around the spinal cord.
By sending medicine straight to the source of pain, patients often need much lower doses than they would with oral medications, reducing side effects.
How does a pain pump work?
The system has two parts: a small pump implanted in the abdomen and a thin catheter that carries medication to the spinal fluid. The pump is programmed to release medication in precise amounts throughout the day, keeping your pain under control.
Common medications used in pain pumps include opioids, local anesthetics, and muscle relaxants. Since the drug goes directly to the spinal fluid, doses are much smaller than those you’d need to take to get the same effect from pills, which lowers the risk of side effects like drowsiness, constipation, and nausea.
Implanting a pain pump happens in two stages. First, patients usually undergo a trial to see how well the medication works when delivered to the spinal fluid. If successful, the Desert Pain Specialists surgically implant a pump under the skin, usually as an outpatient or same-day procedure.
Who might benefit from a pain pump?
Pain pumps are for patients with severe, chronic pain that has not responded to other treatments. Conditions that may benefit include:
- Failed back surgery syndrome
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
- Nerve-related (neuropathic) pain
- Cancer pain
- Advanced arthritis
Desert Pain Specialists carefully evaluates each patient to determine if a pain pump is the right option. If appropriate, they provide the trial, implantation, and ongoing pump management to ensure the best possible results for long-term pain control.
What are the benefits of a pain pump?
Pain pump benefits include:
- More consistent pain relief
- Reduced reliance on oral medications
- Fewer systemic side effects
- Improved ability to perform daily activities
Many patients report a better quality of life after implantation.
As with any procedure, there are potential risks to pain pump implantation, including infection, catheter problems, or device malfunction. However, these complications are rare, and you’ll be closely monitored to ensure your safety.
Contact Desert Pain Specialists if you’re not getting the relief you need from other treatments. Arrange a pain pump assessment by phone or complete the online booking form today.