Pain Pump Procedure in Dallas

What is a Pain Pump?

A pain pump, also called intrathecal pain pump, is a medical device that delivers pain medication directly into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. This small pump is implanted under the skin, usually in the abdomen, and is connected to a catheter that delivers the medication. By delivering medication directly to the source of pain, a pain pump can provide highly effective relief using lower doses than oral pain medications, reducing side effects and improving comfort for those with different chronic pain conditions.

It is often used for managing chronic pain conditions, including pain related to cancer, nerve damage, or severe back pain. Pain pumps can also be adjusted by a healthcare provider to control the dosage and personalize it to the patient’s needs. There are many types of pain pumps, while we specialize in the most “traditional” and reliable type – intrathecal pain pump. This intrathecal pain pump implant delivers medication directly into the fluid around the spinal cord, providing effective relief for chronic pain with lower doses of pain pump medications.

Who can Benefit from a Pain Pump Procedure?

Here’s who can benefit from a pain pump procedure:

Patients with Chronic Pain

People with long-term conditions like failed back surgery syndrome or complex regional pain syndrome may find relief through pain pumps for chronic pain.

Cancer Patients

For those experiencing severe cancer-related pain, a pain pump catheter can provide effective pain relief, reducing the need for high doses of oral pain medications.

Individuals with Nerve Pain

Conditions like neuropathy or nerve damage from injuries may respond well to this procedure, as the pain pump catheter delivers medication directly to the affected nerves.

Patients Not Responding to Oral Medications

If standard pain pills don’t offer enough relief or cause too many side effects, a pain pump procedure can provide effective relief with fewer side effects.

People Seeking Non-Surgical Pain Relief

A pain pump can offer an alternative to more invasive surgeries, providing steady pain management without frequent medication adjustments.

Intrathecal Pain Pump Procedure Details

Here’s how the intrathecal pain pump procedure works in general:

Preparation. The procedure begins at a pain management clinic, where you receive general anesthesia. Imaging like X-rays helps guide the precise placement of the pain pump catheter.
Surgery. During the pain pump surgery, a small incision is made in the abdomen, and the implanted pain pump is placed under the skin. The catheter is inserted into the spinal fluid space and connected to the pump.
Programming the Pump. The pump is filled with medication, such as morphine or other pain relievers, and programmed to deliver specific doses throughout the day.
Recovery and Monitoring. After surgery, patients go home the same day. They follow up for titration of the pump to see the response of the intrathecal pump.
Over time, follow-up visits are needed for adjustments and refills of the medication.

This intrathecal pump offers highly effective pain control for those with chronic pain.

Recovery from Pump Surgery

Recovery after pain pump surgery typically takes around six to eight weeks, though this can vary based on individual factors. After the intrathecal pump placement, patients go home the same day. There is follow up after to adjust doses as needed. Rest is very important during the first weeks, and you should avoid strenuous activities until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.

Many patients will need to wear an abdominal binder to support the area where the pain pump in back was placed, helping reduce discomfort during movement. Additionally, some may participate in a short rehabilitation program to get used to the implanted device. Follow-up appointments are also necessary for adjusting the pump’s medication levels and refilling the device.

Keep in mind, recovery may vary based on the type of pump you get, as different pumps require slightly different procedures, may be placed in different locations, and come with specific care instructions. Always follow instructions from your healthcare providers for the best results.

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What Are the Benefits vs. Risks of a Pain Pump Procedure?

Benefits:

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Targeted Pain Relief. A spinal pain pump delivers medication directly to the spinal fluid, providing a very effective relief for those with chronic pain.

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Reduced Medication Dosage. Lower doses of medication are needed compared to oral drugs, which minimizes side effects and reduces dependency.

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Better Quality of Life. For those using a pain pump for back pain, daily activities can become way more manageable with sustained pain control.

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Customization Options. Medication flow and type can be adjusted based on individual needs.

Risks:

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Surgical Complications. Just like any more or less serious operation, the pain pump surgery carries risks like infection, bleeding, or complications from anesthesia.

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Device Malfunctions. Issues like catheter dislocation or pump failure can disrupt pain management and may require additional procedures.

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Medication Side Effects. Side effects such as nausea, drowsiness, or muscle weakness can occur if the medication dosage is not well balanced.

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Dependency Risk. Continuous delivery of pain medication can lead to physical dependence, requiring careful management by a healthcare provider.

Choose Us for Pain Pump Procedure in Dallas, TX

Looking for the most effective pain management in Dallas, TX? Foundation Pain & Spine Pain Management Clinic, led by Dr. Thompson, offers advanced pain pump procedures to help you find effective relief. As a trusted clinic, we specialize in fully personalized care, using neuromodulation (including peripheral nerve stimulation), and pain pumps to target chronic pain directly.

Our minimally invasive procedures allow for highly precise medication delivery, providing significant relief while minimizing side effects. Dr. Thompson and his experienced team focus on creating customized plans that treat your unique pain. Ready to feel the difference? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience genuine care designed just for you!

Our Insurance Partners

At Foundation Pain & Spine, Dr. Thompson and his team are here to help patients find relief from pain. Effective pain relief starts with a pain specialist and Dr. Thompson is here for you.

What Clients Say About Us

      
   Foundation Pain & Spine PLLC
   52 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Tom 
 2024-07-09
 
 
  Started seeing Justin with level 8 pain for decades. Was told major back surgery was my only option to relieve it. I am not a surgicsl candidate due to fatal allergy to anesthesia. Dr. Thompson put in an intrathecal pain pump using alternate anesthesia. My pain levels now are 5-6! Major relief. I now can walk shoet distances and make my way through the grocery store. I am so grateful.  He is attentive and listens to the patient and includes them in treatments.  Clinic staff is excellent also. I am blessed to have been referred to him.  Incredible clinic.
  
 
       
   Trish Cross 
 2024-05-03
 
 
  Very caring, understanding and professional.
  
 
       
   Paul Terrell 
 2024-04-12
 
 
  Excellent physician who truly care for the well being of his patients. He has gone out of his way to accommodate my everchanging needs on more than one occasion. Navigating life after an injury that left me disabled has been more than challenging but I am confident I will get through it with Dr Thompson in my corner.
  
 
       
   Renee Cooper 
 2023-10-20
 
 
  Dr. Thompson is the first doctor to manage my pain, he's a great doctor that actually listens and evaluate your opinions. My case is complicated but he's been a great help.
  
 
       
   Skyler Karins 
 2022-05-19
 
 
  Two weeks ago I was helping a family lay sod grass and the next day I started to experience hip, leg, and foot pain. I was just taking over the counter pain relief for 2 weeks, but the pain just continued to get worse. I scheduled an appointment and Dr. Thompson was able to see me the same day. He did a great job of assessing my pain and doing a thorough exam on where my pain might be generating from. He prescribed me two pain medications that have me feeling back to my normal self. Words can’t describe the happiness I feel to be back to normal. Thank you Dr. Thompson for helping me get back to a better quality of life.
  
 
       
   KidFink 13 
 2022-05-01
 
 
  Most of the reviews you see may not be authentic. The first appointment he seemed to care and listen to my problems being a paraplegic and my surgery I had coming up needing a pain doctor to take over my post surgery pain medication. He mentioned a procedure to look into that he could do also gave me a lower dosage of what I had been taking for the past 2 years so I was in agony for 15 days I went through 2 or 3 appointments each with a gap of 15 days and did not raise my dosage and sent me to get an MRI. There were a lot of people there to get procedures done I didn’t think much of it at first until I went back to talk about why he gave me an MRI.  Told me that I’m a good candidate and we should move forward with the procedure that I did not agree on. I said I am not comfortable with it and told me, that I am not a good match for his care and I should find someone else. Reminded him that I need a pain management doctor for surgery. Post surgery the doctors at the hospital tried to contact his office multiple times multiple days with no answer. So they had to send in a prescription and released me. I had to get in contact with him to finally get a script. So if you are having surgery and or not comfortable with going through a procedure I would not recommend because that’s all he does is procedures and does not like to prescribe pain medication when it says in his description that he does. I have my own opinion on why he only wants to do procedures but that’s not here nor there. I am only writing this as a warning for other people in my position. Wish you well and my have a better experience than I do.
  
 
       
   Ashley Grissom 
 2022-04-06
 
 
  It is a great office it's just very hard to get in contact with anybody by making an appointment or calling!

FAQs About Pain Pump Procedure

What Is a Pain Pump?

A pain pump is a medical device designed to deliver pain medication directly to the spinal area or other targeted locations in the body. This method allows for effective pain management by providing a continuous supply of medication, which can significantly reduce the need for oral pain medications. Pain pumps are often used for chronic pain conditions or after certain surgical procedures to improve comfort and enhance the quality of life.

What Are the Side Effects of a Pain Pump?

While pain pumps can be effective, they may have side effects. Common side effects can include nausea, constipation, dizziness, or sedation. In some cases, there may be risks of infection at the insertion site or complications related to the catheter or pump itself. It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider to ensure you are well-informed before proceeding with the treatment.

What Medications Are Used in a Pain Pump?

Pain pumps can deliver various medications, depending on the individual’s needs and the specific pain condition being treated. Commonly used medications include opioids, such as morphine or hydromorphone, as well as local anesthetics like bupivacaine. Some pumps may also use adjunct medications, such as clonidine or ziconotide, to enhance pain relief and improve outcomes.

How Does a Pain Pump Work?

A pain pump works by delivering medication directly to the area where pain is experienced, usually through a small catheter placed near the spinal cord. The pump is programmed to release a specific dosage of medication at set intervals, allowing for precise control over pain management. This targeted delivery system helps minimize side effects compared to oral medications and can provide more effective relief for chronic pain conditions.

Author

Dr. Justin Thompson

Dr. Justin H. Thompson, MD, is the founder and CEO of Foundation Pain & Spine. A native Texan and graduate of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, Dr. Thompson specializes in pain management. With advanced training from Baylor University and Virginia Commonwealth University, he offers innovative, personalized treatments to help patients overcome chronic pain and restore their quality of life.
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