About Drug Pumps

The Medtronic intrathecal drug pump, which is implanted in the abdomen, sends pain medication directly to the fluid around the spinal cord, via an implanted catheter. This targeted delivery helps reduce uncontrolled cancer pain and minimize side effects to improve quality of life.

What Is It?

A drug pump (intrathecal drug delivery system) sends pain medication directly to the fluid around the spinal cord, providing pain relief with a small fraction of the medication needed if taken orally.
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Our Drug Pump System For Cancer Pain

A drug pump for intrathecal drug delivery is implanted in the abdomen.
More: SynchroMed^® II Drug Pump

The personal therapy manager (myPTM) allows you to receive a prescribed bolus dose from the drug pump when you are experiencing breakthrough pain.
More: myPTM^® Personal Therapy Manager

Benefits and Risks

Medtronic drug pumps can control pain and increase comfort.¹ The Medtronic drug pump is not for everyone. In addition to surgical risk, device problems can occur and may require corrective surgery.
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Questions and Answers

Get answers to frequently asked questions about drug pumps.
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Why Medtronic Is the Right Choice

You and your doctor have your choice of companies that offer drug delivery therapy for chronic cancer pain. Learn about the reasons to choose Medtronic drug delivery therapy.
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Personal Stories

Read about the experiences of people who received drug delivery therapy for chronic cancer pain. You'll learn first-hand what life has been like for these particular patients, both before and after receiving drug delivery therapy.
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Reference

Smith TJ, Staats PS, et al. Randomized Clinical Trial of an Implantable Drug Delivery System Compared With Comprehensive Medical Management for Refractory Cancer Pain: Impact on Pain, Drug-related Toxicity, and Survival J Clin Oncol 20:40 Vol 20, No 19 (October 1), 2002: pp 4040-4049

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Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.

Last updated: 9 Dec 2011