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[Continuous intrathecal baclofen therapy using an implantable pump system in severe spasticity]
W E Braunsdorf1, H D Kuhlendahl, A Volkheimer
1Neurochirurgische Universitätsklinik, Christian-Albrechts-Universität Kiel.
Neurochirurgia
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Intrathecal Baclofen pump therapy effectively reduces severe spasticity in multiple sclerosis patients. This treatment offers significant spasticity reduction even when oral medications fail, proposing it as an early intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Spasticity, a condition characterized by increased muscle tone and exaggerated reflexes, often results from damage to the motor neurons.
- Severe spasticity significantly impacts quality of life, particularly in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Traditional treatments, including oral medications, may be insufficient or cause systemic side effects.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of continuous intrathecal Baclofen administration via an implantable pump system for managing severe spasticity.
- To assess the effectiveness of low-dose intrathecal Baclofen in patients unresponsive to oral therapies.
- To propose intrathecal Baclofen pump therapy as a potential early treatment option.
Summary:
- A study involving 21 patients with severe spasticity, primarily due to multiple sclerosis, utilized an implantable pump for continuous intrathecal Baclofen delivery.
- Patients previously treated unsuccessfully with oral Baclofen to the point of intoxication experienced favorable spasticity reduction with minimal intrathecal doses.
- The treatment demonstrated a significant reduction in spasticity, improving patient outcomes.
Impact:
- Intrathecal Baclofen pump therapy provides an effective alternative for managing severe spasticity when other methods fail.
- This approach allows for targeted drug delivery, minimizing systemic side effects associated with oral medications.
- The findings suggest considering intrathecal Baclofen pump therapy as a viable option before resorting to more invasive surgical or stimulating interventions.