Drug Pump Implantation Cost in India

The cost of drug pump implantation in India typically ranges from $1,500 to $7,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Drug pump implantation places a small pump under the skin that delivers medicine directly into the fluid around the spinal cord (intrathecal delivery). It is used for severe pain or muscle stiffness (spasticity). The cost usually depends on:

• Pump device: a significant part of the cost.
• Trial dose: done before implantation.
• Hospital stay: short.
• Refills and follow-up: ongoing costs after surgery.

The pump device and later refills can add significantly to the cost. Ask whether the device is included.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust explains that intrathecal pumps are used to manage pain and spasticity. Medicines used include morphine, hydromorphone, ziconotide and baclofen.

A one-off test dose is usually given first to check whether the treatment is likely to help and to guide the starting dose.

According to Leeds Teaching Hospitals, the pump is a titanium disc about 8.75 cm across. It is usually placed under the skin of the abdomen under general anaesthetic, with a thin tube (catheter) running to the spine.

The pump is refilled through the skin every few weeks to every 6 months, depending on the medicine and dose. Each refill takes about 30 minutes.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals reports that the battery typically lasts 5 to 7 years, after which the pump is replaced.

Possible risks include:

• Surgical risks: infection, meningitis, spinal fluid leak causing headache, bleeding and nerve damage.
• Device problems: catheter leaks, kinks or blockages, and a growth at the catheter tip (granuloma).
• Dosing problems: overdose or withdrawal if the pump runs out or malfunctions.

Pump alarms need urgent medical attention.