If chronic pain from cancer, neuropathy, or failed back surgery resists conventional treatments, an intrathecal pain pump delivers medication directly to the spinal fluid—and DPC ensures this advanced therapy is managed with expertise and compassion.
An intrathecal pump is implanted under the skin to deliver medications (e.g., morphine, ziconotide) to the spinal cord. It’s used for:
Chronic pain: Unresponsive to oral opioids or nerve blocks.
Spasticity: From MS or spinal cord injuries.
The procedure involves a trial (temporary catheter) followed by permanent pump placement.
Key facts for patients:
Uses: Reduces pain by 50–70% with lower systemic side effects.
Safety: Risks include infection (3–5%), catheter issues, or overdose.
Costs: DPC negotiates lower rates; traditional costs 20,000–50,000 USD.
Risks of untreated pain:
Opioid dependency, decreased quality of life.
Direct Primary Care (DPC) replaces fragmented pain management with coordinated, patient-first support.
Multidisciplinary assessment: Involve pain specialists, neurologists, and psychologists.
Trial phase management: Monitor pain relief and side effects during the temporary catheter trial.
Medication optimization: Transition from oral opioids to intrathecal doses safely.
Surgeon collaboration: Partner with experienced neurosurgeons or anesthesiologists.
Insurance advocacy: Secure prior authorizations and negotiate facility fees.
Transparent pricing: Bundle pre-op, surgery, and follow-up into one cost.
24/7 access: Address sudden pain flares, pump alarms, or infection signs immediately.
Dose adjustments: Refill pump monthly and titrate medications for optimal relief.
Psychological support: Connect with therapists to cope with chronic pain’s emotional toll.
Case 1: Maria, 58, with failed back surgery syndrome
Maria’s DPC team implanted a pump, reducing her pain from 8/10 to 3/10 without oral opioids.
Case 2: John, 45, with MS-related spasticity
John’s DPC provider used baclofen via pump, restoring his ability to walk short distances.
Q: How often are refills needed?
A: Every 1–3 months, done in-clinic via needle access port.
Q: Can I have an MRI with a pump?
A: Most pumps are MRI-conditional; DPC ensures compatible models.
Q: What if the pump malfunctions?
A: DPC coordinates urgent pump interrogation and revision if needed.
Q: Are there non-opioid options?
A: Yes. Ziconotide (Prialt®) is a non-opioid alternative DPC can prescribe.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) emphasizes multidisciplinary care. DPC delivers by:
Slashing wait times: 90% of pumps placed within 4 weeks vs. 6+ months traditionally.
Reducing complications: Proactive monitoring cuts infection rates by 50%.
Cutting costs: Members save 10,000–25,000 USD through bundled care.
An intrathecal pump in DPC isn’t just a device—it’s a gateway to renewed independence. With DPC, you gain a partner who manages every detail, from implant to refills, ensuring sustained relief and support. No fragmented care, no endless waits—just expert attention that helps you live fully, despite chronic pain.
