Frequently Asked Questions — Winter 2006
As an ongoing resource for you, Medtronic is happy to answer questions about your Medtronic Pain Therapy. Below we’ve included some frequently asked questions with corresponding answers from our Medtronic Patient Services team.
Neurostimulation Questions
Q: Can I use an electric blanket or heating pad with my implanted device?
A: Please understand that the following recommendations are based on Medtronic's knowledge of the technology rather than on clinical testing. Please follow these guidelines:
It is recommended that devices not be placed near or over any of the implanted system components (leads, extension, and battery). When using an electric blanket or electric heating pad, we recommend that your neurostimulator first be turned down and then turned off, and that the electric control be kept at least 10 inches from your implanted components. If you notice any changes such as increased warmth around your implanted components, please remove the electric blanket or heating pad. If the blanket or heating pad contains a magnet, we recommend that the magnet be kept at least 10 inches away from the neurostimulator.
Medtronic recommends that you discuss with your physician the use of an electric blanket or heating pad before using either product.
Q: What is the difference between “therapeutic” vs. “diagnostic” ultrasound?
A: Therapeutic ultrasound refers to a type of treatment, commonly used by physical therapists or chiropractors, to help with healing of tissue damage. It is also called “deep heat treatment” and is classified under the umbrella titled “diathermy.”
Diagnostic ultrasound refers to the use of ultrasonic waves for diagnostic purpose, specifically to visualize an internal body structure.
The following compatibility information is based on our knowledge of the technology rather than on clinical testing.
Therapeutic ultrasound (diathermy) is contraindicated and CANNOT be done under any circumstances.
Diagnostic ultrasound is unlikely to affect the implanted neurostimulation system. However, the implanted neurostimulation system may affect the outcome of the diagnostic ultrasound. To minimize image distortion, it is recommended your neurostimulator be first turned down to the lowest setting and then turned off. The transducer head used to complete the diagnostic ultrasound must be kept at least 6 inches away from the neurostimulation system.
Please inform your physician about your implanted device right away if therapeutic or diagnostic ultrasound is being discussed as a potential treatment for you.
Q: How do I order an antenna for my Restore® Patient Programmer?
A: The antenna for the Restore Patient Programmer must be ordered through your managing physician's office.
 |
 |
 |
Please contact your doctor with medical related questions regarding your device. You may also contact Medtronic Patient Services with device related questions at 1-800-510-6735 during the business hours of Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Central Standard Time. |
||
 |
|
 |
Drug Delivery Questions
Q: Can I use an electric blanket or heating pad with my implanted device?
A: Please understand that the following recommendations are based on Medtronic's knowledge of the technology rather than on clinical testing. Please follow these guidelines:
If the blanket or heating pad contains a magnet, we recommend that the magnet be kept at least 10 inches away from the implanted drug delivery system.
Medtronic recommends that you discuss with your physician the use of an electric blanket or heating pad before using either product.
Q: What is the difference between “therapeutic” vs. “diagnostic” ultrasound?
A: Therapeutic ultrasound refers to a type of treatment, commonly used by physical therapists or chiropractors, to help with healing of tissue damage. It is also called “deep heat treatment” and is classified under the umbrella titled “diathermy.”
Diagnostic ultrasound refers to the use of ultrasonic waves for diagnostic purpose, specifically to visualize an internal body structure.
The following compatibility information is based on our knowledge of the technology rather than on clinical testing.
How the therapeutic ultrasound (diathermy) will affect the implanted drug delivery system is unknown. However, the pump can retain heat. If overheated, a pump can over infuse the drug, potentially causing a drug overdose. We are not aware that the implanted drug delivery system has any affect on the outcome of the therapeutic ultrasound.
Diagnostic ultrasound is unlikely to affect the implanted drug delivery system. We are not aware that the implanted drug delivery system has any affect on the outcome of the diagnostic ultrasound.
Please inform your physician about your implanted device right away if therapeutic or diagnostic ultrasound is being discussed as a potential treatment for you.
Q: I have a SynchroMed® EL drug delivery pump (model 8626 & 8627). Can I receive the Personal Therapy Manager (PTM)?
A: The Model 8832 Personal Therapy Manager (PTM) is available for pain management. It is an accessory to the SynchroMed® II (model 8637) drug delivery system only, not to the SynchroMed EL drug delivery system. When it comes time to replace your pump, you and your physician will decide if this new accessory is right for you. It enables patients to initiate a physician prescribed bolus.
To determine if you could benefit from this product and therapy, discuss this product thoroughly with your physician. Important factors that may affect whether the PTM is a possibility for you also include geographic location, specific hospital, and reimbursement by your medical benefit plan.
|
|
|
Please contact your doctor with medical related questions regarding your device. You may also contact Medtronic Patient Services with device related questions at 1-800-510-6735 during the business hours of Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Central Standard Time. |
||
|
|
|
All Rights Reserved
