home *** CD-ROM | disk | FTP | other *** search
- These devices are often about the size of a deck of cards. They hold the drug supply, a mechanism for
- injecting it slowly and smoothly into an attached catheter , a battery to power the mechanism and controls for
- regulating the rate of drug delivery. Many of the pumps have become very sophisticated. Some have alarms to
- alert you to problems. One of the newer systems can deliver four separate drugs in a preset time sequence.
- Several types are available. The balloon pump (Travenol infuser) is the cheapest and simplest, consisting
- basically of a large plastic reservoir. The pump is filled, then attached to a port or catheter. The pump empties
- automatically when it's connected.
- • Central nervous system delivery Some patients, such as those with acute leukemia, need chemotherapy
- drugs injected into the spinal fluid. This can be done by repeated lumbar punctures (spinal taps), but the
- preferred method is to use an Ommaya reservoir. This is a rubber bulb usually placed under the scalp. A tiny
- tube connects the reservoir to the spinal fluid compartment. This requires a minor operation for placement of
- the reservoir and tube. Drugs are injected through the skin into the reservoir. Infection in the reservoir area is a
- possibility, so patients are usually monitored for side effects such as tenderness, inflammation , fever, stiff
- neck and headaches.
- • Intraperitoneal This technique which involves delivering drugs directly into the abdominal cavity is
- sometimes used for ovarian or abdominal metastatic cancer. A catheter is connected to a chamber, usually on
- the chest or abdominal wall. The drugs are injected into the chamber, which releases them into the abdominal
- cavity. This eliminates the need to put a new tube into the abdomen every time drugs have to be given. High
- dosages can be given this way, higher than would be possible with any other method of delivery.
