Intrathecal Therapies

Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am. 2018 Aug;29(3):537-551. doi: 10.1016/j.pmr.2018.04.001. Epub 2018 May 29.

Abstract

Intrathecal baclofen therapy is a well-established technique for spasticity management. This article briefly reviews the pharmacology of intrathecal baclofen as well as customary approach for utilization of this targeted drug delivery concept. Following these descriptions, four unusual presentations will be described, including the need for initial trialing, patient-directed boluses during chronic intrathecal baclofen therapy, use of medications other than baclofen for intrathecal therapy in spastic patients, and intraventricular baclofen delivery. These hypothetical cases are provided in an effort to expand the use of targeted drug delivery to larger population of spastic patients.

Keywords: Intrathecal baclofen; Intrathecal therapy; Intraventricular baclofen; Spasticity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Baclofen / administration & dosage*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Spinal
  • Male
  • Motor Neuron Disease / complications
  • Motor Neuron Disease / drug therapy
  • Muscle Relaxants, Central / administration & dosage*
  • Muscle Spasticity / complications
  • Muscle Spasticity / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Muscle Relaxants, Central
  • Baclofen