Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy
Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy (ITB) is a treatment using Lioresal® Intrathecal (baclofen) that is delivered into the fluid around your spinal cord (intrathecal) to help manage severe spasticity. For long term treatment, the drug is placed into a pump that is surgically placed under the skin of your abdomen. The pump delivers Lioresal® Intrathecal through a small tube (catheter) into your spinal fluid. Your provider can program the pump to deliver the appropriate daily dose for you. Before you can be considered for long term treatment, you must have pump trial to see how you respond to the drug when it is delivered in this way. During the trial, a provider will use a long needle to inject a small dose of Lioresal directly into your spinal fluid. After the trial dose is administered, we will assess and discuss the results with you and determine if you are an appropriate candidate for the therapy (Medtronic, 2020)
Why would someone need a baclofen pump?
People who have conditions of the brain or spinal cord (such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, stroke, brain injury or spinal cord injury) often times experience severe spasticity. Oral medications prescribed to treat spasticity can cause significant side effects that are difficult to manage, and may not control severe spasms. For these individuals, Intrathecal Baclofen therapy may be a better treatment option.