Local Infusion Pain Management Pump
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
What is a local infusion pain management pump?
A local infusion pain management pump is a device that gives medicine for 2 to 5 days. You will get medicine called local anesthetic through the pump. This medicine numbs the area to decrease your pain before, during, or after surgery. The device pumps medicine through the catheter to the place in your body where you need it.
What does the pump system look like?
The pump system includes a round plastic container in the shape of a ball. The container is filled with medicine through an opening at the top. The pump attaches to your clothing, or it may have a carrying case. Tubing comes out of the pump. A clamp closes off the tubing if needed. A filter in the tubing gets rid of air. A device in the tubing controls the amount of medicine you get. The tubing may have an additional device on it that can give you extra medicine (bolus) when you need it. You will press a button on the device to get the extra medicine.
How do healthcare providers put the catheter into my body?
Healthcare providers will place a catheter before or after you have surgery. They will decide where to put the catheter to best manage your pain. It may be placed near your surgery site. Healthcare providers use a needle to place the catheter. They will tape the tubing to your skin and cover it with a bandage. They may also tape the flow controller to your skin.
What are the benefits of the pump?
You may have less pain if you get medicine through the pump. You may not need to take pain pills, get shots, or get medicine through an IV. The risk for side effects or complications from the medicine is lower. You may be able to return to your usual activities because your pain is controlled.
What are the risks of the pump?
You may not get the right amount of medicine if the pump stops working correctly. Medicine may leak from the machine and cause skin damage. If you are allergic to silver, you may have an allergic reaction to the tubing. Numbness is normal in the area where the pump goes into your skin. You may injure a body area because you cannot feel it.
When should I seek immediate care?
- Your skin is red, warm, swollen, or draining pus.
- You have a large bruise around the area where the catheter goes into your body.
- You are dizzy or your vision is blurry.
- You have ringing or buzzing in your ears.
- Your mouth, fingers, or toes are numb or tingling.
- You become more tired than usual, or you are confused.
When should I call my doctor?
- The tubing is twisted.
- You give yourself a bolus and the button does not pop up after 30 minutes.
- Your pain gets worse even with the medicine.
- You have a metal taste in your mouth.
- Your pump is empty or you think it needs to be removed.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Care Agreement
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Further information
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