What are some of the risks of the pump therapy?
Problems with IDD are rare but it is important that you are aware of them so that they can be corrected as soon as possible.
As the pump and tube (catheter) are put in place during an operation, complications such as infections are possible. Other potential complications include bleeding, pain and discomfort and blood or fluid in the pump’s pocket.
The tube could move or be blocked, or in rare cases, the pump could stop working. This would cause a reduction in or loss of pain relief and may need an operation to fix, but is extremely rare.
After the operation, you will learn about potential side effects caused by drug overdose or drug "underdose". What you might experience depends on the drug in the pump. It is also important for caregivers and family to become fully conversant with the first signs and symptoms of overdose or withdrawal ("underdose") and to be able to alert the medical team, if necessary.
Problems with IDD are rare but it is important that you are aware of them so that they can be corrected as soon as possible
Patient testimonials
William's story
After about 23 years of dealing with upper and lower back pain and 3 years of medical disability from his job, William's pain management doctor advised him about implanting an IDD pump. "I went from about 45 pills of various meds a day to now I only take 1 type at bedtime. I have had many pump refills with no problems. If anyone is having second thoughts about getting the pain pump, GO FOR IT, it is the next best thing to chocolate."
Read William's full story
Read other stories
