Intrathecal Baclofen Pump for Spasticity – Ramos Center

Common questions asked by patients: How long does it take for Baclofen pump to work? Why would you need a Baclofen pump? How does a Baclofen pump work?

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What are Intrathecal Pumps for Spasticity?

Spasticity is a motor disorder characterized by tight or stiff muscles that may interfere with voluntary muscle movements and is a problem for many patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), spinal cord injury (SCI), cerebral palsy (CP), and acquired brain injury (ABI). Increased tone and spasm reduces mobility and independence, and interferes with activities of daily living, continence and sleep patterns.

Intrathecal drug delivery is a targeted route of drug distribution, designed to reduce cancer pain and minimize intolerable side effects. Studies show Intrathecal Pumps are a cost-effective treatment option that improves quality of life for patients with over 3 months of survival time. Patients can trial pumps prior to implantation and if necessary, is easily removable.

Pumps can be programmable or nonprogrammable. Using an external programmer, a physician can make adjustments in the dose, rate and timing. The pump reservoir can be refilled approximately every 2-3 months by percutaneous injection. The pump is taken out and replaced at the end of the battery’s life span (approximately 5-7 years).

Am I a candidate for Intrathecal Pumps for Spasticity?

Candidates for intrathecal baclofen infusion are patients with spasticity who have intractable spasticity uncontrolled by drug therapy or who experience intolerable side effects to oral baclofen.

For more information, visit: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3382401/

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