David Garrett, a pancreatic cancer patient at MD Anderson Cancer Center, experienced a significant improvement in his quality of life through the use of an intrathecal pain pump. Diagnosed in 2021 after experiencing persistent abdominal and back pain, Garrett's tumor was found to be inoperable, leading to a treatment plan involving chemotherapy, radiation, and a clinical trial.
Managing Pain with Targeted Therapy
Despite these treatments, Garrett continued to suffer from significant pain. Prescription pain medications proved ineffective, prompting his pain specialist, Dr. Larry Driver, to refer him to Dr. Matthew Chung for consideration of an intrathecal pain pump. This device, about the size of a hockey puck, is surgically implanted under the skin of the abdomen and delivers pain medication directly to the spinal cord and nerves.
Direct Delivery for Enhanced Relief
The key advantage of the intrathecal pain pump is its ability to provide strong pain relief using a much lower dose of medication compared to oral or injected alternatives. This is because the direct delivery bypasses systemic circulation, preventing dilution of the drug as it travels through the body. Garrett now receives a non-opioid medication via the pump, which effectively manages both his tumor pain and neuropathy.
Improved Quality of Life
Since receiving the pain pump, Garrett's quality of life has markedly improved. Before the pump, he was largely confined to bed. Now, he is able to engage in activities such as gardening and yard work. His wife has noted a significant positive change in his overall well-being. Garrett emphasizes that for individuals experiencing constant cancer pain and seeking a better quality of life, an intrathecal pain pump is a viable option to discuss with their physician.
A Focus on Living
Garrett's experience underscores the importance of comprehensive pain management in cancer care. By effectively controlling his pain, the intrathecal pain pump has allowed him to focus on living life to the fullest, tending to his garden, and enjoying the simple pleasures despite his ongoing battle with pancreatic cancer. He visits MD Anderson every three months to refill the pump and every two weeks for chemotherapy.
