Drug Pump Implantation For Spasticity
Question: What is a drug pump (intrathecal baclofen) for spasticity treatment?
Answer: In some severe spasticity cases, when oral medications are insufficient or cause significant side effects, an intrathecal baclofen pump may be considered. Systematic reviews report meaningful reductions in spasticity severity (according to clinical scales) and functional gains; outcomes vary depending on the patient and the underlying cause.
When going for pump evaluation:
- Cause of spasticity (trauma, cerebral palsy, etc.) and previous treatments
- Physical therapy program and goals (sitting, ease of care, pain control)
- History of side effects / medication tolerance