Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I tell if the pump is working properly?
- What is the Symbios GOPump™?
- What are the benefits of having a GOPump™ for postoperative pain relief?
- Are there any side effects associated with using the pump?
- What do I do when the pump is empty?
- How can I tell if the catheter is completely removed?
- Can I shower with the pump on?
- How long does the pump last?
- Can this device be used with other pain relievers?
- What types of procedures can the GOPump™ be used on?
- What if my physician hasn’t started using the Symbios GOPump™ yet?
How can I tell if the pump is working properly?
A.The light colored “balloon” will gradually decrease in size as the medication is dispensed. Please note that the rate of change is so slow you will not be able to see the balloons get smaller right away. Significant change won’t be seen until at least 24 hours after surgery. The medication will be fully dispensed when the “balloon” becomes visibly flat on all sides, appearing like a thick pencil. Sometimes all sides are not evenly flat- this is normal. If you notice that the pump is not dispensing medication as it should, close the clamp and call the Symbios patient hotline at 1-866-844-5443 or call your physician. For a time-lapse illustration of the pump infusing, click here.
What is the Symbios GOPump™?
A. The Symbios GOPump™ is a local pain management system that consists of a small “balloon” that is inflated with a local anesthetic medication. This medication is delivered via tubing to the surgical site at a very slow flow rate. The medication helps to reduce the pain associated with the surgery.
What are the benefits of having a GOPump™ for postoperative pain relief?
A.Using a Symbios GOPump™ after your surgical procedure may provide many benefits, including, but not limited to:
- Greater pain relief and patient satisfaction than with narcotics alone
- Reduced need for narcotics- Many patients find they don’t need them at all!
- Earlier ambulation and return to function
- Decreased length of hospital stay
Are there any side effects associated with using the pump?
A. Side effects are rare but can include:
- Skin rash or hives
- Excitation, restlessness, or excessive drowsiness
- Redness, swelling, pain and/or discharge around the wound site
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Ringing in ears
- Nausea or vomiting
Be aware that you may experience numbness at or around the wound site and take proper care to avoid injury. If you experience any of the symptoms above, close the clamp and call your doctor immediately or the Symbios patient hotline at 1-866-844-5443.
What do I do when the pump is empty?
A. The “balloon” should become visibly flat on all sides, appearing like a thick pencil, when the medication has been fully dispersed. Sometimes all sides are not evenly flat-this is normal. It will be up to your surgeon to decide if he/she wants to remove the catheter or have you remove it yourself. Follow the instructions of your physician for removal. If your physician has instructed you to remove the catheter when the medication runs out, begin by taking off the dressing and then gently pulling the catheter out of the site. See Patient Information Brochure for details.
How can I tell if the catheter is completely removed?
A. After the catheter has been removed from the body, inspect the tip to see if it is either dark blue or black. This will verify that the catheter has been completely removed.
Can I shower with the pump on?
A. You should follow your physician’s instructions for showering after your procedure. If showering or bathing is permitted, you should not get the pump, catheter or tubing wet.
How long does the pump last?
Click here to view the GOPump Duration Table
Can this device be used with other pain relievers?
A. The pump itself may reduce or eliminate the need for narcotics or additional pain relievers. However, any medications prescribed by your physician can be safely taken while wearing the pump.
What types of procedures can the GOPump™ be used on?
A.The GOPump™ can be used on almost any surgical procedure. Click here for a list of surgeries. Ask your doctor is it’s right for you!
What if my physician hasn’t started using the GOPump™ yet?
A. You can help him or her learn about all the great benefits of using the GOPump by printing off this product brochure and taking it to your next visit! You can also direct your physician to our website- www.symbiosmedical.com, where they can contact us for more information.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to email us at: info@symbiosmedical.com.