Spinal drug delivery systems, also called intrathecal drug delivery systems, use a small pump that is surgically placed under the skin of a person’s abdomen. The pump delivers pain medicine directly to the intrathecal space, or area that surrounds the spinal cord. Medicine is delivered through a surgically placed catheter (a small, flexible tube).
How do spinal drug delivery systems work?
The systems deliver pain medicines directly to the spinal cord, where pain signals travel. For this reason, intrathecal drug delivery can provide significant pain control with a fraction of the dose that would be required with pills.
When are spinal drug delivery systems used?
In many cases, spinal drug delivery systems are used to treat people who have cancer pain or chronic pain.
What are the advantages of spinal drug delivery systems?
Spinal drug delivery systems increase pain relief and comfort for people with severe pain. In addition, the system can cause fewer side effects than oral medicines because less medicine is required to control pain. People who have extreme pain can improve their quality of life and become more involved in daily activities with the help of the systems.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 12/1/2004...index#12060
