What it is:  Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy (ITB) is a unique treatment that delivers a Baclofen injection directly to the fluid surrounding the spinal cord in small, precise doses through an internally placed pump. It is used to treat severe spasticity associated with cerebral palsy. Baclofen Therapy has been used since 1984 and has helped thousands of individuals to be more independent, enabling them to feed or dress themselves, sit more comfortably, and transfer more easily. Baclofen was introduced in 1967 as an oral medication for the treatment of muscle spasticity.

How it Works:  A test dose is administered before the implantation of the pump. The effect of the medication can be noticed within two hours and will last for eight to ten hours. Spasticity in the legs is almost always relieved through the test dose.

During a one hour operation, a 3" x 1" round pump is implanted above the belly button. The medication is delivered internally through a catheter to the lower spinal cord. The pump can hold up to three months of medication. The doses can be adjusted by a portable computer.

Possible side effects include sleepiness, nausea, headache, muscle weakness, and light-headedness. Most of these symptoms are temporary and can be alleviated through a change in dosage. The pumps need to be checked periodically by a medical professional to ensure the effectiveness and proper dosage administration.

For More Information:  To learn more about Baclofen Therapy, visit the following Web sites:

United Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation

The Hyman-Newman Institute for Neurology and Neurosurgery

Kennedy Krieger Institute

Medtronic

Suite101.com

United Cerebral Palsy of New York City is providing basic information and recommends that you seek expert medical advice with regard to baclofen therapy. UCP's providing this information should not be viewed as an endorsement of the treatment.