BREG Inc., a Vista California based medical technology firm, is one of several companies that manufacture devices known as pain pumps. These devices deliver controlled amounts of local anesthetics to patients in order to manage their pain after surgery. However, two recent studies have shown that the devices may be linked to a painful condition known as PAGCL (Postarthroscopic Glenohumeral Chondrolysis).

A closer look at BREG’s pain pumps

BREG markets several different types of pain pumps known as the e-Paincare System, the 2000 Series and the 3000 Series. According to the company’s website (www.breg.com), their infusion pumps are for local wound site infusion of non-narcotic anesthetic for the management of post-operative pain. Here’s a closer look at each series:

• e-Paincare System: The e-PainCare System is an electronic, programmable, reusable, ambulatory infusion pump used to deliver local anesthetics to a post-operative wound site. The device provides an hourly bolus of non-narcotic pain reliever at a rate of 2 mL, 4 mL or 6 mL per hour.
• PAIN CARE 2000, 2000L: The PAIN CARE 2000 series pumps provide a patient-controlled bolus (extra dose) of non-narcotic anesthetic directly to the post-operative wound site. The PAIN CARE 2000L provides a 30 minute “lock-out” between doses. The anesthetic is delivered through a radio-opaque, multi-port infusion catheter that can be trimmed to the desired length. These portable, lightweight and compact units are ideal for outpatient use. Two configurations are available to address clinical and patient preferences.
• PAIN CARE 3000, 3200, 4200: The PAIN CARE 3000 series pumps (of which the 4200 seems to be included) combine a continuous drip of anesthetic to the post-operative wound site with a patient-controlled bolus. The anesthetic is delivered through a radio-opaque, multi-port infusion catheter, which can be easily trimmed to the desired length. These portable, lightweight and compact units make them ideal for outpatient use. Three configurations are available to address various clinical needs and requirements.

Additional information on the products can be obtained on the company’s website or by contacting them at 1-800-897-BREG (2734).

PAGCL symptoms

PAGCL, or Postarthroscopic Glenohumeral Chondrolysis, is a painful condition caused by the deterioration of cartilage (a dense connective tissue that, among other things, allows movement in joints) around the shoulder area. Symptoms of PAGCL include decreased range of motion, grinding of the shoulder, shoulder pain whether in motion or at rest, shoulder stiffness or weakness and a narrowing of the joint space in the shoulder area.

A 2006 study from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, and a 2007 article published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, both linked the use of pain pumps to PAGCL. At this time, the devices continue to be used although several lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers. Medical experts say that patients with PAGCL may have to undergo further arthroscopic surgery to correct the damage done to their shoulders by pain pumps.

If you or a loved one has developed PAGCL after using a pain pump, contact a qualified lawyer whose practice focuses on pain pump issues. To contact an attorney for a free, no obligation consultation, please click here.