An intrathecal pain pump is a device that is surgically implanted in the body and designed to deliver pain medication at the spinal cord via a small tube. It is generally used only when noninvasive treatments to control pain have failed. The pump can be prescribed for the treatment of cancer, chronic pancreatitis, failed back or neck surgery and compression fractures. Morphine and fentynl are two of the drugs that the intrathecal pain pump can administer. Side effects sometimes result from use of the pump.
Medication Side Effects
The medication that the intrathecal pain pump delivers can cause side effects. For example morphine and fentynl are medical opioids. According to the American Chronic Pain Association medical opioids can cause nausea and vomiting, especially in higher doses. Patients may suffer from memory impairment and a reduced ability to think clearly. Medical opioids can also cause drowsiness and a reduction in coordination. A more serious side effect is depression of the respiratory system. Patients may also become dependent on the medications.
Constipation
Constipation is a potential side effect of the intrathecal pain pump. Constipation can occur when the medical opioids used in the pump bind to cellular receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, which can decrease intestinal secretion. Other symptoms associated with constipation include abdominal and rectal pain, a sense of abdominal fullness and having difficulty having a bowel movement, even with straining.
Other Side Effects
According to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, impotence is another potential side effect of the intrathecal pain pump. Impotence can occur when the opioids bind to cellular receptors in the hypothalmus, pituitary and testes, which can interfere with the release of the hormone testosterone. Agitation, seizures and headaches are also potential side effects.
