Managing a National Intrathecal Pump Service During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Objective: The healthcare and social disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic could pose significant risk to patients with intrathecal pump (ITP) who may miss refill or replacement appointments. In some cases, this could be life-threatening. We designed and piloted a novel refill protocol to assess its efficacy and safety. Materials and Methods: Screening of our ITP database for patients most at risk of harm was conducted. These patients were risk-assessed for COVID-19 infection and were enrolled in a protocol to optimize the safety and efficiency of their pump replacement or refill. Results: Of note, 31 of 51 database patients were deemed to be high risk of ITP failure during the pandemic. Thirty patients were successfully refilled with only one patient refusing to leave their house for refill. There were no significant adverse outcomes. Conclusion: Our protocol offers a safe and efficient pathway for ITP management during a pandemic.