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Archie here:
When I first had my pump implanted in 2007 in DC, I also had an infection which resolved into a large seroma (fluid filled sack) around the pump. The surgeon was apologetic as he removed many 100.s of cc's from my body., but it solved the issue. I'm now 80, and my Adhesive Arachnoiditis has progressed and for whatever reason is more active right now. I have a 40ML PUMP, SO PLENTY OF ROOM FOR MEDICATION. I get over 6.8 on continuous flow daily (I'll look ups exactly if you need it) but also have the choice of 5 boluses /day. This flexibility precludes the necessity of oral meds. Bottom line, I'm very happy with the Medtronic 40 that I have.
As an aside, I recently had a consult with the head of Neurology at Mayo's in Jacksonville, and he told me again the AA is progressive and that it was UNREASONABLE for me to expect the pump to cover all the pain issues I am having, That was a real kick in the butt, and he recommended getting a spinal cord stimulator as an adjunct to the pump. For me, that has been a big mistake. I've gone through months of healing, testing various treatment protocols--all to no avail--it just doesn't help me. So be aware that it may not be for everyone. I've had AA since 1978, so I do have some perspective on the disease and treatment modalities.. I wish you good luck.
Best, Archie
Replies to "Archie here: When I first had my pump implanted in 2007 in DC, I also had..."
@archie2 I have a spinal cord stimulator since 2021. It worked for about a year and then stopped. I think the problem was that my stimulator moved. It is now sticking out of my back instead of being flat against my back. I am now looking at a pain pump. The first trial was unsuccessful. It took many hours for the medication to work, but I still had to take OxyContin that night. I will be having another pain pump trial in the near future and I’m hoping it will work better. In other words I would give the stimulator a chance.
@archie2 Hi, Archie. Merry Christmas. I have been seeing your posts here on May. As I have mentioned, I am still trying to get some pain relief from this pump. Nothing (except one day about two months ago) after two and a half years. You say that you receive 6.8 continuous. Is that mg? Also, is your medication morphine or hydromorphone (my med)? Thank you.
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Hi Archie, I get 6 blouses per day, and have a good dose of baclophen to help with muscle pain. I’ve now progressed to the pump as well as 8mg oral dilaudid 2 times a day, this has provided good pain management and I’ll stick with this protocol for the long haul, it took a lot of trial and error, but finally have a better quality of life.