Understanding Intrathecal Pump Therapy: A Guide for Patients and Families

Chronic pain and severe muscle spasticity can greatly affect quality of life. For some patients, traditional oral medications don’t provide enough relief or cause difficult side effects. In these cases, intrathecal pump therapy may be an option. This advanced treatment delivers medication directly to the fluid around the spinal cord, offering targeted relief with smaller doses than pills or injections.

What Is an Intrathecal Pump?

An intrathecal pump (also called a pain pump or baclofen pump, depending on the medication) is a small, programmable device implanted under the skin of the abdomen. A thin catheter connects the pump to the intrathecal space—the area around the spinal cord where cerebrospinal fluid flows. By delivering medicine directly to this space, the pump provides effective symptom control using a fraction of the dose needed orally.

Conditions Treated with Intrathecal Pump Therapy

Intrathecal pumps are used to manage:

• Chronic pain (cancer-related, neuropathic, or severe back/leg pain)

• Spasticity from conditions like multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, or stroke

• Pain syndromes that haven’t responded well to traditional treatments

How the Therapy Works

1. Trial Phase – Before implanting a pump, doctors perform a trial injection or short-term catheter placement to see if the medication provides meaningful relief.

2. Implant Surgery – If successful, a pump is surgically placed under the skin of the abdomen, with the catheter positioned near the spinal cord.

3. Programming & Refills – The pump is programmed to release precise doses of medication. Refills are done in the doctor’s office every 1–6 months, depending on the dose and size of the reservoir.

4. Monitoring & Adjustments – Doses can be adjusted without further surgery, allowing tailored symptom control over time.

Benefits of Intrathecal Pump Therapy

• Lower medication doses reduce side effects like drowsiness, constipation, or confusion.

• Improved quality of life through better pain or spasticity control.

• Adjustable and reversible—dosing can be modified, and the pump can be removed if needed.

Risks and Considerations

Like all medical treatments, intrathecal pump therapy has potential risks, such as infection, pump malfunction, or catheter complications. Regular follow-up is important to ensure the system works properly and medication is delivered safely.

Is It Right for You?

Intrathecal pump therapy is usually considered when other treatments haven’t provided enough relief. If you or a loved one struggles with severe pain or spasticity, talk to your healthcare provider to see if you may be a candidate.