Intrathecal Pumps Effective in Treatment and Management of Cancer, Chronic Pain, and Other Conditions

 

An intrathecal pump is a surgically implanted device that delivers low amounts of pain relievers, such as bclopflop-bclop, or intrathecal morphine, directly into the sac containing the nerves that control your facial and neck pain. When injected at high doses, these drugs can minimize both the physical side effects associated with high doses of prescription narcotics, as well as the psychological effects caused by prolonged use.

While the exact nature and benefits of an intrathecal pump are not yet completely understood, they have been shown to be effective for the treatment of many types of pain, including neck and facial pain. In fact, intrathecal pumps have become a popular treatment for certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the gastrointestinal tract and breast cancer. This in turn has led to approval and launch of several intrathecal pump devices in the U.S. and elsewhere. For instance, in February 2020, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Flowonix’s Prometra II Programmable Pump System for use with intrathecal baclofen to treat severe spasticity in diseases, including cerebral palsy.

 

The application of intrathecal pumps to alleviate pain in the face and neck is relatively new. This is true despite the fact that these devices have been clinically proven to be beneficial for treating a variety of conditions. The first group of patients most commonly affected by this medical technology are those who suffer from debilitating pain, including cancer pain, chronic pain, and facial pain brought on by accidents. Patients undergoing cancer treatment are often prescribed these intrathecal pumps after cancer cells infiltrate the nerves within the cranial cavity. Chronic pain, which can include lower back pain, hip pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome, is typically managed by prescription pain medication, but sometimes, due to underlying medical issues, it requires a different approach.

The intraspinal infusion therapy, also known as steroid injection therapy, is one of several types of intrathecal pump medications. It works by injecting medication directly into the brain. While the exact mechanism behind how this medication is delivered is not fully understood, the intrathecal pump recognizes a specific pattern of electrical signals that mirror those that the spinal cord generates. Once these signals are formed, the drug is then able to travel throughout the spinal cord and reach the brain, where it has the best chance of fulfilling its purpose.

Steroid injections work very well for pain management and control. However, intrathecal pump medications work best when they are used in tandem with other therapeutic options. When used in line with alternative therapy options, such as chiropractic care, LASIK surgery, acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic medicine, this therapeutic method offers the most effective relief for patients suffering from pain caused by injury or disease of the spine. When all other treatment options fail, these medications are usually the first ones to bring about significant improvements.

Side effects associated with intrathecal drug pump medications are fairly rare. Some of the most common side effects include general aching, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, dizziness, sensitivity to light, and even an increased risk of infection. While these are relatively few, they can be enough to distract a patient away from the real cause of their pain and discomfort and towards the perceived magic pill.