Advanced, implantable therapy that delivers pain medication directly to the spinal fluid, providing powerful relief with minimal medication side effects.
An Intrathecal Pain Pump, also known as an Implantable Drug Delivery System, is a small device placed under the skin that continuously delivers pain medication directly into the spinal fluid (intrathecal space).
By targeting the pain receptors in the spinal cord, the pump allows strong pain control with much smaller doses compared to oral medication, reducing side effects such as drowsiness or nausea.
It is typically used for patients with severe, chronic pain who have not achieved relief with other treatments.
An intrathecal pain pump may be recommended for:
unresponsive to oral or IV medication
Evidence for non-cancer pain is less clear than for cancer pain, but it is an option of last resort.
that persists despite treatment
caused by neurological disorders
due to side effects
Delivers effective pain relief with less medication
Fewer systemic medication side effects (e.g., nausea, sedation) than oral drugs
Consistent, steady pain control throughout the day
Reversible and adjustable at any time
Improves comfort, mobility, and quality of life
Can significantly reduce dependence on systemic opioids
If successful, a small pump is implanted under the skin of the abdomen and connected to a catheter leading to the spinal fluid.
The pump is refilled periodically in the clinic through a simple injection port.
A temporary trial is performed to assess effectiveness. A successful trial is typically defined as >50% pain reduction
The device is calibrated to deliver the optimal amount of medication.
For patients living with severe, unrelenting pain, an Intrathecal Pain Pump can restore comfort, independence, and hope, even when other treatments have failed. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Babak to discuss whether this advanced therapy is right for you.
