A pain pump is a disposable device with a catheter or tube, temporarily inserted into the shoulder following arthroscopic shoulder surgery that is used to deliver pain medication directly into the shoulder joint. The device is usually removed approximately 2 – 3 days after surgery. The use of certain pain pump catheters following arthroscopic shoulder surgery may be linked to a condition called Post Arthroscopic Glenohumeral Chondrolysis (PAGCL). This is a severe condition associated with increased pain and loss of cartilage and shoulder joint space. Symptoms of PAGCL may include increased shoulder pain and stiffness, loss of cartilage, decreased range of motion, loss of joint space in the shoulder joint, clicking, popping or grinding (crepitus) in the shoulder, and/or loss of strength.

If you, or a loved one, had complications from using a pain pump, contact us immediately.