At Pacific Endometriosis and Pelvic Surgery, we know that sometimes small details make a big difference. One of those “small things” is the On-Q pain pump — a compact, quiet device that provides pain relief after surgery. While the idea of going home with a pump and tubing can sound intimidating at first, most patients tell us afterward that it was one of the best parts of their recovery plan.

How It Works

The On-Q pump is a small, lightweight device filled with bupivacaine, a long-acting numbing medication. During surgery, we place thin catheters that deliver this medication directly to the tissues affected by surgery — providing steady, localized pain control for several days. The continuous infusion helps keep discomfort in check while minimizing the need for stronger medications. Most patients have their pump removed on day five after surgery, and we provide step-by-step instructions and video guides here for a safe, easy removal process at home.

A Powerful Combination: TAP Block + On-Q

At the time of surgery, we also perform a TAP (transversus abdominis plane) block, a regional anesthesia technique that injects numbing medication between the layers of the abdominal wall. This targets the nerves that carry pain from the front of the abdomen, providing powerful relief for the first 12–24 hours after surgery. Once that effect fades, the On-Q pump continues releasing pain medication through the critical early recovery days.

Safety and Satisfaction

While any medical device carries small risks — such as a superficial skin infection or a minor hematoma (bruising) at the catheter site — these are rare. For the vast majority of patients, the comfort and pain relief provided by the On-Q pump far outweigh these minimal risks. Our team carefully places the catheter during surgery and provides clear instructions for care and removal. The feedback we receive is overwhelmingly positive: patients are often surprised at how well they feel and how little narcotic medication they need postoperatively.

The Bottom Line

The On-Q pain pump represents a simple yet highly effective step towards a more manageable recovery after complex pelvic surgery. By combining the on-Q pain pump with the TAP block as well as oral pain medications, we have a true multi-modal approach to managing pain — with less reliance on narcotics and giving patients more confidence as they heal.  It’s a small device that makes a big difference in how our patients experience their recovery.