"seemingly helped" meaning I couldn't really tell lying in the hospital bed. I was released and sent home to do 'normal activities' for a day but the only opening for follow up he had, was early am - so there was not a day's worth of normal activity to evaluate... but the hospital bed seemed more comfortable and it seemed easier to reach to make my bed. So I am thinking, it 'helped'.

I thought it odd - since I thought that is 'why' I had the 'trial phase' ... thank you for your response.  Have you had one of these installed?

No,

I install them and teach physicians how to install them properly.

The trial should be undeniable if it helped or not.

 Remember, it is the same medication you take orally only placed in a different spot.

I have had patients in the hospital for 4-5 days titrating the dose up, changing to another medication or combination. If it is not a clear cut improvement then I would not place it in you.

That is why there are people out there not happy with the pumps or stimulators. The trial must work or it should not be placed.

Ask him why he places saline in the pump and where you can find the information to review. I would look for a second opinion if the answer is vague.

Well I guess since I have been battling chronic pain for so many years and the past few years have significantly STOPPED my quality of life - and narcotics thru the 'blood' didn't work - the pump is the last resort. I tried the patches, and injections and nothing helped. The trial was the only thing that was of some promise -- I don't expect complete relief. Pain is too bad, for that. I expect 'some' relief and was told that other meds can be added if Morphine alone is not adequate for pain management. Now I am told that only 1 week post op of Saline is needed and this is to ensure pump is working correctly and there are no 'leaks'. I consulted with 2 other physicians now, regarding this matter and they are all in agreement, given my physical problems with the spine. I really appreciate your help with this. I imagine those not happy with the results of their pumps may be caused by too high of expectations. I seek 50% relief but any relief will be welcome. Thank you for your answers -- they are greatly appreciated. Lori.

Lori,

I hope everything works out for you. The expectations of reducing pain is the best. Once in a great while we make it go away....we got lucky.

I have a real hard time with the "leak" answer. I would definitely get another opinion.... from another group of Docs. It is rare that they "leak" and it is operator error when it does happen.

You need to look for an Interventional Pain Physcian, fellowship trained. Most are anesthesiologists.

Look at the ASIPP (American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians) web site and then click "about ASIPP" and then "Board Members". That will give you a list of highly trained docs. If you find one in your state but too far. Call and ask for a recommendation as to someone in your area.

Let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

I appreciate your feedback more than you know. I have an appt. with the anesthesiologist early April. Wish me luck. My surgeon states that they need to ensure 'everything is working correctly' and that it is a week, not a month. This is a younger doctor but after the 'trial implant' and his precautionary measures, I now feel as though he is just being very careful and not taking it for 'granted' that all will be ok. My 'spine' has several issues and most, I am told -- do not. Then entire bone is diseased and riddled with compression / compound fractures, sandwiched with bone spurs and arthritis throughout. Just getting the needle in, was a 'process'. I pray for some releif and if luck prevails - then more!

Let me know what they say. I will always give you an unbiased view. I believe in options and I always give my patients options and they choose.

You need to stay in control of your treatment and ask questions. This is a partenership not a dictatorship.

Best of luck.

Hi there! Well it has been 2 full mos., now since receiving Morphine thru my pump. They go very slow with the amt. going thru, and not even at 1mg. yet.

This is to prevent side effects, I am told. I have been on pain meds for over 35 yrs and responded to nothing. Therefore, I fear a high dose may be what it takes for me. I am not even at 1mg. yet.

Anyway, the pump itself is very bulky. I am only 5 ft tall and extremely high wasted. The pump site hurts bad when bending over - it digs in my skin - like when sitting and trying to put on my shoes... do YOU know if they make smaller pumps, like child-size? I go in every 2 weeks for adjustments... I just now thought of that question! I like your comment "this is a partnership not a dictatorship"! The doctor has worked with me some ... increasing dosage more than standard protocol -- I had to gently remind him that same treatment plan for each patient seems odd when each patient is so unique ...