Like most procedures, having a
drug pump implanted to help you control your chronic back pain means you'll have to give up, or at least consult with your doctor about giving up, certain experiences. But all is not lost -- for example, you may be able to get out of waiting in those long lines at the airport scanning machine. Check this list to be sure you're are staying safe with your implantable drug delivery system.
If you need to have an MRI after you've had a drug pump implanted, check with your doctor first. MRI machines vary, so in some cases you can have one done with no problem, while in others, this may not be the case. Depending upon the type of medication delivery of your pump, you may have to stop the pump or empty it prior to the test. Then you can resume after the test. Ask your doctor how to best deal with any increase in pain or spasm during the time your medication is suspended.
2. Going Through the Metal Detector with an Implanted Drug Pump
After a drug pump implantation, walking through scanners found in airports, government buildings, schools and the like will sound an alarm. The reason this happened is that the pump is metallic, and the scanner responds to it. Avoiding scanners will probably be less dramatic for you and the people around you. You can get a card to show the officials manning the scanners.3. Taking Saunas and Getting a (Fake) Tan with an Implanted Drug Pump
If you have a fixed delivery rate pump, you will need to avoid saunas and tanning beds. The heat from these experiences can cause the implant to increase the rate of delivery of the medication.4. At the Physical Therapists Office with an Implanted Drug Pump
And if you go to physical therapy, you need to be at least 12 inches (30 centimeters) away from any short wave diathermy device that is in use. (Short wave diathermy is a high radiofrequency treatment for pain and muscle spasm.)5. For the Adventurous - Physical Challenges and Implantable Drug Pumps
Most people who have a drug pump implanted to help control their chronic back pain are just glad to be restored to a reduced or minimal pain status for their day-to-day activities. But for those individuals who seek physical challenges, following a drug pump implantation, it is imperative to speak with your surgeon before exerting yourself.
