Overview
The Intrathecal pump therapy is the process of providing medications directly into the spinal cord. The therapy is followed by the use of a small device attached to a thin tube called catheter. The device is surgically implanted under the skin the basic purpose of the pump is to relive pain and reduce side effects from oral medications
Advantages
There are several advantages of Intrathecal pump therapy that may include
Immediate and long term pain relief, Increased mobility of the spinal cord, participation in routinely activities and physical workouts, Less intake of oral medications, resulting in lower side effects and reducing dependency on oral medications. The Intrathecal pump therapy is potentially safe and highly effective. The Intrathecal pump therapy does not include any permanent changes in the spinal cord or the nerve network. The therapy is reversible and easily testable and can be adjusted according to your needs
Risks of the Intrathecal pump therapy
Since the Intrathecal pump therapy is surgically implanted under the skin, there might be complications that may include; infection, cerebro spinal fluid leakage and headaches. In case of any active infections or allergic reactions it is strictly advised to avoid the Intrathecal pump therapy
The implantation of the drug pump can create several complications that sometimes require surgery to settle, the complications can also be caused by inadequate dosage of the drug an can bring life threatening consequences
The most observed complications include;
The displacement of the drug pump, the leakage from the catheter, tearing or loosen contact of the catheter with the device. The device stops working or in some cases growth of inflamed tissues at the end of the catheter that may result in paralysis
Intrathecal Pump therapy and other chronic pain treatments
Intrathecal pump therapy enjoys priority over other treatments offered for chronic pain due to its uncommon benefits
Prior to implanting the drug pump for permanent bases, a temporary testing period is considered to check if the pain is relieved. The therapy is not permanent such as back pain surgery and can be easily adjustable and reversed, if not needed by the patient, Intrathecal pump therapy dissimilar to oral medication release potentially small amounts of dosage straight into the spinal cord, reducing pain abruptly. The Intrathecal pump therapy works wonders when all the other medications have failed