Intrathecal Pump Implants in Louisiana
An intrathecal pump is a small implanted device that relieves long-lasting pain by delivering medication directly into the intrathecal space around the spinal cord. Because the medicine goes right where pain signals travel, it can work even when other treatments don’t. LA Pain Doctor is one of the few practices in the region offering intrathecal pump implantation and management for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Request an AppointmentHow an Intrathecal Pump Works
When pain medication is taken by mouth, it travels through the entire body before a small amount reaches the spinal cord. An intrathecal pump, sometimes called a pain pump, delivers a precise dose of medication directly to the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. Because it bypasses the rest of the body, it often provides strong relief with a fraction of the oral dose and fewer whole-body side effects.
The pump is a round device about the size of a hockey puck, placed under the skin of the abdomen. A thin catheter carries medication from the pump to the intrathecal space. The pump is programmed to release medication on a set schedule, and some systems allow patients to give themselves an extra dose when pain flares.
Who May Benefit
- Patients with severe chronic back or leg pain that has not responded to other treatments
- People who experience intolerable side effects from oral pain medications
- Patients with chronic pain after spine surgery
- Those with cancer-related pain
- Patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome or other chronic nerve pain
The Trial and Implant Process
Before a permanent pump is placed, you will complete a trial dose to see how well intrathecal medication relieves your pain. If the trial is successful, the pump is implanted during a minimally invasive procedure. Afterward, you will return to our office regularly to have the pump refilled, a quick appointment done through the skin with a small needle, and to adjust your dose as needed.
Comprehensive Long-Term Care
Our team provides ongoing intrathecal pump management, including refills, programming, and monitoring. For some patients, a spinal cord stimulator trial may be considered first or alongside pump therapy. Learn more about pain medication management and opioids and chronic pain management, or explore our lower back pain treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Intrathecal Pump Implant
What is an intrathecal pump?
It is a small implanted device that delivers pain medication directly into the fluid around the spinal cord for powerful relief with smaller doses.
Who is a candidate for a pain pump?
Patients with severe chronic pain who have not found relief with other treatments, or who cannot tolerate oral medications, may be candidates.
Do I need a trial before getting a pump?
Yes. A trial dose helps confirm the therapy relieves your pain before a permanent pump is implanted.
How often does the pump need to be refilled?
Refill schedules vary, but many patients return every one to three months. The refill takes just a few minutes in the office.
Will I still take oral pain medication?
Many patients are able to significantly reduce or stop oral pain medications after a successful pump implant.
Does LA Pain Doctor manage existing pumps?
Yes. We provide intrathecal pump management, including refills and programming, for new and existing patients.
Where can I get intrathecal pump therapy?
LA Pain Doctor offers intrathecal pump implants and management at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Explore Advanced Pain Relief
Find out if intrathecal pump therapy is right for you. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.