Anti-spasm pump insertion

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).

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.

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.