Treatment of cerebral origin spasticity with continuous intrathecal baclofen delivered via an implantable pump: long-term follow-up review of 18 patients.

OBJECT

The goal of this study was to assess the long-term benefits of managing severe spasticity by using continuous infusion of intrathecal baclofen delivered via an implantable pump.

METHODS

Eighteen patients with severe spasticity of cerebral origin, who failed to respond adequately to more conservative treatments, have-been treated with continuous infusion of intrathecal baclofen delivered via an implanted pump. Follow-up review of these patients has lasted between 12 months and 9 years. The patients have been assessed using a variety of tools. Seventeen have had a significant reduction in tone and all have benefited by a reduced need for nursing care or increased function or both.

CONCLUSION

Long-term continuous infusion of intrathecal baclofen delivered via an implantable pump offers an effective method for dealing with otherwise intractable spasticity.