Subcutaneous Blister Formation with Abdominal Binder Usage in the Post-operative Period after Intrathecal Pump Placement

Intrathecal pumps (ITP) are an established intervention for control of muscle spasticity, chronic cancer, and non-cancer related pain. 

 The standard implantable drug delivery system (IDDS) consists of a surgically implanted and refillable reservoir and pump that delivers a set amount of medication into the intrathecal space via an intrathecal catheter.

 Risks associated with ITPs include migration of hardware, cerebrospinal fluid leak or occlusion, infection, and granuloma formation. 

 In patients, especially on active immunotherapy, mitigating infection in the acute postoperative period reduces the risk of systemic infection, bacterial seeding, and subsequent removal of the ITP.  

 With appropriate use, postoperative abdominal binder placement can further reduce post-surgical risks such as seroma formation, wound dehiscence, and delayed wound healing.