What is the ACCUFUSER® pain pump?
ACCUFUSER® is an elastomeric (“balloon”) pump that infuses local anesthetic through catheters directly into surgical incision sites to attack post operative pain at the source.

Does ACCUFUSER® contain latex?
There is no latex in the ACCUFUSER® pain pump.

What is the medication of choice for ACCUFUSER®?
The surgeon may select any suitable local anesthetic following the drug manufacturer's guidelines.

How much medication does the pump hold?
ACCUFUSER® has reservoir volumes of 100ml, 275ml, and 550ml. The volume is selected by the surgeon and the volume is designated on the side pump label.

Is it okay to have air bubbles in the balloon?
Yes. The inline filter will remove any air that is present in the tubing.

What basal rates are available?
0.5 ml/hr, 1.0 ml/hr, 2.0 ml/hr, 4.0 ml/hr, 5.0 ml/hr, 8.0 ml/hr and 10.0 ml/hr,

What is the volume of the bolus for the ACCUFUSER® PLUS?
Bolus’ of 1.0 ml/hr and 2.0 ml/hr with lockouts of 15 min., 30 min. and 60 min. The bolus volume is clearly designated on the bolus button.

How can you tell if the pump is working?
Because the flow rate is so slow you will not be able to visually see the medication infusing. However, if you look at the measurement markings (located on the side of the pump) you will be able to observe the decrease in medication over time. If your pump includes a bolus feature you can simply press the button to deliver medication. The button will slowly deflate and you may even feel the medication going into the incision.

How much pressure is inside the pump?
8 pounds of pressure per square inch

Does the catheter increase the risk for infection?
After several years of clinical use, no increase in post operative infections has been observed. The following guidelines increase the chances of minimizing infections:
     *Insert catheter 3-5cm from incision site
     *Cover insertion site with a transparent dressing
     *Assess the site regularly
     *Remove catheter upon completion of infusion
     *Do not refill the pump

Can I refill the pump with more medication?
Curlin Medical does not recommend refilling a pump. You can, however, fill a new pump and attach it to the catheter or Y-connector.

Who removes the catheter?
The surgeon decides who will remove the catheter. It can be the surgeon, a nurse or the patient themselves.

Remove the transparent dressing from the catheter site, remove the steri-strips and gently slide the catheter out of the tissue.

What if I meet resistance when I remove the catheter?
If resistance is met, try repositioning the area where catheter is placed and gently slide the catheter out of the tissue. If there is still resistance call your surgeon.
*If the catheter is being removed in the physicians office, infuse 5ml of normal saline or local anesthetic of choice as a bolus through the catheter(s). Gently slide the catheter out of the tissue.