Janina Gburek-Augustat1, Matthias Krause2, Matthias Bernhard3, Ina Sorge4, Daniel Gräfe4, Manuela Siekmeyer5, Ulf Nestler2, Andreas Merkenschlager3. 1. Division of Neuropediatrics, Hospital for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. Janina.Gburek-Augustat@medizin.uni-leipzig.de. 2. Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. 3. Division of Neuropediatrics, Hospital for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. 4. Pediatric Radiology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany. 5. Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Hospital for Children and Adolescents, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Although intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is an effective treatment for spasticity, it has several disadvantages and a risk of complications. METHODS: We present six pediatric patients who suffered from unusual mechanical failures of intrathecal baclofen pump systems. RESULTS: With these case-vignettes, we provide a systematic approach on how to interpret the symptoms of ITB complications and an advice which further diagnostic and therapeutic steps to follow. We underline the seriousness of baclofen overdose, underdosing or withdrawal.
INTRODUCTION: Although intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is an effective treatment for spasticity, it has several disadvantages and a risk of complications. METHODS: We present six pediatric patients who suffered from unusual mechanical failures of intrathecal baclofen pump systems. RESULTS: With these case-vignettes, we provide a systematic approach on how to interpret the symptoms of ITB complications and an advice which further diagnostic and therapeutic steps to follow. We underline the seriousness of baclofenoverdose, underdosing or withdrawal.