Use of intrathecal baclofen in children and adolescents: interdisciplinary consensus table 2013

Steffen Berweck1, Sonnhild Lütjen1, Wolfgang Voss2

  • 1Department of Paediatric Neurology and Rehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and Adults, Schön Clinic Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany.

Neuropediatrics
|September 5, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) offers a vital treatment for severe spasticity and dystonia in children. This consensus report details best practices for ITB therapy in pediatric movement disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Movement Disorders
  • Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is increasingly used for severe pediatric spasticity and dystonia.
  • ITB application in children differs significantly from adult neurological and oncological uses.
  • A consensus on best practices is needed for this specialized pediatric application.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish a consensus report on best practices for intrathecal baclofen (ITB) treatment.
  • To address the specific challenges and considerations of ITB in children and adolescents with movement disorders.
  • To provide a comprehensive information base for ITB treatment options in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Development of a consensus report by an interdisciplinary group of 14 German centers.
  • Utilized a problem-oriented approach integrating theories and methods from experienced ITB users and movement disorder experts.
  • Data pooled from over 400 pediatric patients undergoing ITB treatment.

Main Results:

  • Summarized experience and supporting evidence from 14 German centers.
  • Presented findings in a tabular format for clarity and accessibility.
  • Established a current understanding of ITB treatment options for children and adolescents.

Conclusions:

  • Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is a key therapy for severe spasticity and dystonia in pediatric patients.
  • This consensus report provides essential guidance for the optimal use of ITB in children.
  • The findings represent a significant step in standardizing ITB treatment for pediatric movement disorders.

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