Intrathecal baclofen for the treatment of intractable spasticity of spine or brain etiology.

Objective. To determine the long-term relief of spasticity and complication rates in patients who underwent placement of a programmable intrathecal baclofen pump for treatment of medically intractable spasticity of spine or brain etiology. Methods. Sixty-two consecutive adult patients who underwent placement of a programmable pump were retrospectively reviewed. Results. Spasticity was clinically and statistically significantly decreased in all patients. Catheter-related kinks, breaks, dislodgments, and disconnections were the most common complications followed by drug-related effects, infections, and wound complications. Conclusions. Intrathecal baclofen is a very effective strategy for the relief of medically intractable spasticity of spine or brain etiology. Even though 36% of patients have required revisions, no patient has experienced any long-term morbidity. Patients and their primary care givers have been pleased with the long-term effects of this therapy upon quality of life.