What is a baclofen pump? The baclofen pump system consists of a pump and a catheter that brings the medication from the pump into the spinal fluid. The pump is a round metallic disc (about 1 inch thick and 3 inches in diameter), which is surgically implanted under the skin of the abdomen.
How is baclofen used to treat NBIA?
Baclofen is one of the most effective drugs for dystonia (involuntary muscle spasms) and spasticity (stiff or rigid muscles) in NBIA. A baclofen pump is surgically placed inside the body and continuously delivers baclofen. When and how much baclofen gets delivered is programed into the pump by a doctor.
How is baclofen administered in pre-operative trials?
During a pre-operative trial, baclofen is injected into the spinal canal (using a small needle) and you are assessed by the treatment team over several hours to determine how well the medicine treats the spasticity. If a positive effect is observed then you may be a candidate for implantation of a permanent pump to delver the drug.
What is the success rate of baclofen pump implantation?
The success rate of baclofen pump implantation for delivery of baclofen to the spinal fluid is generally favorable. Patients tend to have had a good response from pre-operative trials of intrathecal (delivery to the spinal fluid) baclofen and this is the permanent implantation phase. How long will I stay in the hospital?
What is the best way to deliver baclofen?
An intrathecal delivery system, which provides the baclofen right to the target site in the spinal cord, is an effective way to deliver the medicine.
How effective is a baclofen pump for spasticity?
By delivering baclofen directly to the spinal fluid, the baclofen pump can be effective in controlling spasticity and dystonia at doses 100 times lower than baclofen pills. How is a baclofen pump implanted? The baclofen pump is implanted using a surgical procedure performed while your child is under general anesthesia.
What are the side effects of baclofen?
Baclofen is one of the medications most commonly used to treat spasticity. Baclofen acts in the spinal cord, and improves hyperactive reflexes and excessive muscle tone. Some of the side effects of baclofen are: Stopping baclofen suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms that include seizures. You should avoid suddenly stopping this medication.
