At-Home Pump Used for Pain Control in Children

Pain after surgery can be a big problem. In this study, doctors used a small, portable pump after surgery for three children. The pump allowed the patients to go home with good pain control. It also made it possible for the children to complete their physical therapy (PT) sessions.

Until now, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) was only used for adults. The pump was large and heavy, with very advanced technology. The unit used in this study was lightweight and fit easily inside a small pouch. It was battery operated. Parents could change the program at home with instructions from the doctor.

The main goal in getting such good pain control was to complete the PT program everyday. The PCA was used for the first three days. No other pain medication was needed during that time. PT was carried out with little to no pain. Rehab is very important in the success of many operations.

The authors point out that in-home use of PCA is experimental at this time. Routine use can't be prescribed until safe doses can be determined.