Treatments

Pain Pump

A pain pump is surgically implanted device designed to deliver medication directly to the spinal cord reducing the dosage required for pain relief, and limiting the side effects of oral medication. Pain pumps interrupt pain signals to the brain and are used when oral medications and other strategies have failed to relieve neuropathic pain, or surgery has been ruled out. The pump can also be used to deliver drugs to reduce spasticity.
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Pain pumps have minimal risks and side effects that include: respiratory depression, twitching, muscle spasm, urinary retention, constipation, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anxiety, depression, and edema. More serious side effects can include: infection or bleeding from surgery, catheter movement, blockage or failure, spinal fluid accumulation or leakage resulting in headaches.

As with any medical procedure, pain pumps are not appropriate for everyone. Please consult with your Pain Doctor or Neurosurgeon to determine if this procedure is right for you.

Source: WebMD