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@rockon79

I had a Medtronic pain pump removed after 18 years. You are correct, the opioid withdrawal was absolutely horrible. Only those who have experienced it know just how awful it is. And what is worse, my anesthesiologist never warned me of the severity and length, and he certainly didn't monitor me at all during this difficult time. I don't believe he knew what he should have about withdrawal and his interest was more in installing and servicing the pumps! Long term morphine usage can exacerbate and even cause some of what you describe. Opioids can alter your brain's perception of pain, can cause homeostasis quickly upping the dose for the same result to name a few. I have a couple more responses under chronic pain that may be helpful. I wish you well-I have been there.

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Replies to "I had a Medtronic pain pump removed after 18 years. You are correct, the opioid withdrawal..."

I had my pump removed less than 2 weeks ago. I had a pump in place for 20 years. For some reason, the pump had become painful in my abdomen. It had to be aggravating nerves, cause it was so painful. I had my pump weaned down to a low dose over a number of weeks. Because I got my pump to a low level, I didn't go through withdrawals. I have been through withdrawals before so I know how bad they can be. I wish your pain management doctor had weaned your pumps. So much easier.