Infections associated with intrathecal baclofen therapy: a multicentre case-control study.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) infusion manages spasticity in neurological conditions.
• Infections associated with ITB pumps represent significant complications.
• This study investigates the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of ITB-related infections in adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of ITB pump infections.
• To identify risk factors associated with ITB infections.
• To evaluate treatment strategies and patient outcomes for ITB infections.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case-control study was conducted across three Paris referral centers.
• Data were collected from patients receiving ITB between 2017 and 2024.
• Infections were confirmed by clinical signs, microbiological findings, and antibiotic treatment.

Main Results:

• The incidence of ITB infections was 6.3% (19 out of 302 patients).
• Risk factors included younger age, male sex, spinal cord injury, and alcohol use.
• Prior surgery for infection was a significant predictor (OR: 10.43).

Conclusions:

• ITB pump infections are rare but associated with specific patient factors.
• Spinal cord injury, alcohol use, and prior infectious surgery are key risk factors.
• Prompt diagnosis and management, including pump explantation and antibiotics, result in favorable outcomes.