Baclofen and the Baclofen Pump, Update 10/2001

In April 1994 and November 1995, Research Foundation Research Fact Sheets summarized the information available about the use of the drug Baclofen when administered into the spinal fluid (intrathecal Baclofen) for the treatment of the spasticity associated with cerebral palsy.

Since then, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of Baclofen administered into the spinal fluid by an implanted pump for the treatment of spasticity of cerebral origin, including cerebral palsy, brain injury and stroke. Thus, this clinical intervention is now available to persons with muscle spasticity due to cerebral palsy.

There are very few reports of any complications associated with this therapy. On rare occasions, infection may occur or the tube from the pump to the spinal canal may become blocked. Again, these are rare.

The major issues remaining are:

When should intrathecal Baclofen be chosen in the treatment of spasticity when compared to other available therapies?

What are the criteria that predict success in use of intrathecal Baclofen (a person's age, type and degree of impairment, associated dysfunctions)? When is success unlikely?

With a decrease of spasticity, what steps need to be taken to improve function? Physiotherapy to build muscle strength and coordination is the most accepted approach. However, there are several "schools" of physical therapy, which are most effective? How much physiotherapy is needed and for how long?

Baclofen bathes the spinal cord at the lower end of the spinal canal and thus influences the nerves coming from and going to the lower extremities and pelvis. However, there are reports that spasticity in the upper limbs may also be diminished. Is this true? If so, why?

Baclofen administered by pump into the spinal fluid is now one of the several accepted therapies for spasticity due to cerebral palsy. More information about the use of Baclofen administered by a pump can be obtained from:

Susan Johnson

http://www.medtronic.com>

Medtronic, Inc.

710 Medtronic Parkway NE; ms LN230

Tel: 1-800-328-0810<br> Email:

mailto:Susan.kay.johnson@medtronic.com>

Susan.kay.johnson@medtronic.com