Intrathecal Baclofen Infusion for the Treatment of Movement Disorders.

Abstract

Intrathecal baclofen infusion is an accepted treatment for spasticity. Evidence also exists for the treatment of secondary generalized dystonia with intrathecal baclofen infusion. Benefits include decreased tone, improved positioning, and decreased decubitus ulcers. Despite these benefits, there are significant complications that can occur with this therapy, including drug withdrawal, catheter infection, drug overdose, failure, and pump failure. In some cases, practitioners encourage a trial dose of intrathecal baclofen by injection or catheter infusion before pump implantation. To improve patient selection and outcomes many centers offering intrathecal baclofen therapy use a multidisciplinary team composed of physicians, surgeons, and physical therapists.