SynchroMed implantable pump

The SynchroMed implantable pump was the first externally programmable implant pump to be introduced in the United States (in 1988). The major components are a miniature peristaltic pump, a drag reservoir (18 ml), a battery, an antenna, a microprocessor and a catheter through which infusate is delivered to a specific site. 

Implantable drug delivery systems are defined as longterm (>30 days) implantable products that are resorbable or removable. The resorbable implants are injectables incorporating lyophilized microspheres. The removable version is typically a subcutaneous implant, requiring minor outpatient procedures for insertion and removal. The main commercialized product in this category is Norplant , a contraceptive implant. Medtronic Corporation has two products in the implantable area that allow drug delivery into the intrathecal space (where the spinal fluid circulates). One of these products delivers baclofen for spasticity, and the other delivers anaesthetics for pain control. Both products utilize Medtronic s SynchroMed infusion pump, which can be electronically programmed to deliver any type of preset dose. 

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