What is an Intrathecal Baclofen Pump?
Intrathecal drug delivery is a targeted route of drug distribution, designed to reduce cancer pain and minimize intolerable side effects. Studies show Intrathecal Pumps are a cost-effective treatment option that improves quality of life for patients with over 3 months of survival time.
Patients can trial pumps prior to implantation and if necessary, is easily removable.
An intrathecal pump delivers baclofen directly into the Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The system consists of a catheter and a pump. The pump is surgically placed under the skin of the abdomen near the waistline, under general anesthesia. The pump stores and releases prescribed amounts of medication through the catheter. The pump is refilled by inserting a needle through the skin into a filling port in the center of the pump.
Pumps can be programmable or nonprogrammable. Using an external programmer, a physician can make adjustments in the dose, rate and timing. The pump reservoir can be refilled approximately every 2-3 months by percutaneous injection. The pump is taken out and replaced at the end of the battery’s life span (approximately 5-7 years).
Am I a candidate for Intrathecal Baclofen Pump?
Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy (ITB™) is now available for patients suffering from chronic muscle stiffness or severe spasticity associated with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, brain injury, and stroke. This life-changing therapy allows muscles to relax, thus helping people move more easily.
“ITB™ Therapy has helped thousands of people with severe spasticity who have experienced intolerable side effects from oral medications or who find other therapies ineffective.”