INSTALLATION OF PUMP FOR CONTINUOUS SUBARACHNOID DRUG INFUSION

Installation of pump for continuous subarachnoid drug infusion: The placement of pump for a continuous subarachnoid-infusion or the implantation of a pump for continuous drug administration in the subarachnoid space is indicated for:

• Cancer Pain, for continuous infusion of morphine.

• Spasticity, for continuous infusion of baclofen.

The installation of pump for continuous subarachnoid drug infusion is usually recommended for the treatment of cancer pain in patients with bone metastases but with satisfactory survival. By placing a continuous subarachnoid infusion pump, morphine is injected directly into the nervous system on a 24-hour basis, thus avoiding the systematic administration of sufficient doses that usually cause intense and unpleasant side effects. In this way (the continuous subcutaneous pump infusion of drugs or the implantation of a pump for continuous administration of drugs in the subarachnoid space) the daily suffering due to pain is avoided, the patient is relieved not only physically but also psychologically, thus improving hers/his quality of life. The installation of pump for continuous subarachnoid drug infusion in the subarachnoid space is performed either with general or regional anaesthesia, depending on the needs of each patient. The patient stays in hospital one to two hours and then leaves. The pump is controlled according to its setting and is “recharged” with drug solution, depending on the patient’s needs.

Spasticity of the extremities that usually occurs after trauma, stroke, multiple sclerosis, myelitis, encephalitis, etc., obstructs smooth limb mobility, hinders physiotherapy and personal care and hygiene of the patient and greatly influences negatively the quality of life of the patient. Placement of the continuous infusion pump of baclofen is also helpful in cases where this approach is recommended.