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Long–term intrathecal baclofen therapy in ambulatory patients with spasticity

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Abstract

Background

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is an effective treatment for severe spasticity. In ambulatory patients with spasticity, it is possible that ITB treatment may compromise ambulatory function by unmasking underlying muscle weakness. This retrospective study is designed to determine the long–term ambulatory function in patients receiving ITB.

Methods

Thirty–six patients with severe spasticity previously screened for response to ITB were implanted with programmable pumps that allowed for continuous infusion of ITB. Patients were followed after implantation from 1 to 13 years.

Results

All 36 patients had decreased spasticity and retained ambulatory function. Three of the 36 patients eventually became paraplegic related to underlying disease progression.

Conclusion

ITB therapy may be used in selected ambulatory patients with spasticity and is not associated with loss of ambulatory function.

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Correspondence to S. A. Sadiq MD.

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Sadiq, S.A., Wang, G.C. Long–term intrathecal baclofen therapy in ambulatory patients with spasticity. J Neurol 253, 563–569 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-005-0060-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-005-0060-4

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