New system of pain relief redefines recovery

In an effort to enhance rapid recovery in both operative and non-operative care, doctors at Community Regional Medical Center have begun using the On-Q Pain Buster system for patients who undergo knee replacement surgery.

“My team is able to identify those nerves and apply medication directly to those nerves,” Dr. Kevin Lester said. “Not only can the patient be perfectly aware during the surgery, but they can be perfectly aware after the surgery.”

The On-Q system is a pump the size of a small balloon that is secured to the thigh. Attached is a small catheter that pumps out small doses of pain medication, similar to Novocain, around the knee area. Patients wear it home, and their doctor takes it out after a couple of days.
 
With the On-Q pump, patients no longer suffer adverse reactions to morphine, such as nausea, vomiting, excessive sedation or the possibility of addiction. Patients spend a shorter amount of time at the hospital, and save on hospital costs.

This story was reported special by Clare Frederick. She can be reached at MedWatchToday@communitymedical.org.

Monday, May 12, 2008