Anti-spasm pump insertion
Treatment for severe spasticity
Inserting an anti-spasm pump into your body to alleviate severe spasms
About
Severe spasms are common symptoms of brain and spinal injuries and conditions. They can be extremely painful and leave your muscles stiff and difficult to move. To alleviate your symptoms, we can place a pump inside your body to constatnly administer an anti-spasm drug throughout the day and night.
Need to know
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What happens icon plus
An anti-spasm pump insertion involves placing a reservoir pump filled with an anti-spasm drug into your body. Your neurosurgeon will start by making a small cut in the skin above your tummy, before inserting the pump under it. They'll then insert a catheter (a thin tube) into the fluid around your spine, tunnel the tubing under your skin and connect it to the pump. After they've closed the cut, your neurosurgeon will programme the pump to release the drug into your central nervous system in certain amounts at certain internals throughout the day. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic (you'll be asleep). -
How to prepare icon plus
Your consultant neurosurgeon will explain how to prepare for your anti-spasm pump insertion during a pre-op screening. They may ask you to take doses of the anti-spasm drug in the weeks leading up to your procedure. This will let your consultant neurosurgeon assess your future dosage amount and frequency. As an anti-spasm pump insertion is carried out under general anaesthetic, you'll most likely be asked to limit your food and drink intake in the hours leading up to your procedure. You may also be given a pair of compressive love socks to wear during the procedure to help prevent blood clots. -
Afterwards icon plus
After your anti-spasm pump insertion, you'll be transferred to our recovery ward where we'll care for you. You'll most likely have to stay with us for a few days. After you've been discharged, you'll be asked to return to one of our spinal or neurology outpatient facilities every two to six months to top up the anti-spasm drug in your pump. Your pump will need to be replaced every five years.
Our consultants
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.