An intrathecal pump, also known as a pain pump, is used to deliver pain medication directly to the spinal cord. The pump is surgically implanted in the body and designed to deliver medication over a prolonged period of time. The use of pain pumps is indicated for individuals with severe and chronic pain conditions that do not respond to more conservative treatment measures. As with any procedure, there is risk for adverse reactions.
Surgery Complications
There are numerous complications that can arise from the procedure itself. Among them are bleeding, neurological injury and infections. Given the location and seriousness of the procedure, the potential complications can be life-threatening. Bleeding within the spine will initially cause pain at the site, and eventually the individual will develop neurological symptoms, and possibly paralysis. If the catheter is place improperly, the individual may experience pain, loss of bladder function, loss of sensory function or paralysis. In addition, infection and inflammation can result if proper sterile technique is not performed during the surgical procedure. Bacteria may be introduced at the site of the incision, potentially causing infection at the surgical site, or more seriously, the bacteria can travel in the spinal fluid, causing serious neurological complications.
Medication Complications
There are a wide variety of medications that are used with an intrathecal pump, including opioids and nonopioid substances. In rare cases, an allergic reaction can result if the individual is sensitive to the medication. More likely, there may be difficulty determining the appropriate level of medication needed to be effective in controlling pain. It is important to monitor symptoms and work with the ordering physician to establish the correct level of medication administration.
Spinal Fluid Leaks
Another possible complication from the insertion of a pain pump is leakage of spinal fluid. If this occurs, the individual will suffer what is referred to as a postdural headache initially. The leaking spinal fluid will also decrease the amount of fluid surrounding the brain, resulting in the headache. A characteristic of this type of complication is that the head pain is alleviated when the individual is lying flat.
