Intrathecal baclofen therapy

Abstract

Intrathecal baclofen therapy (ITB) is a surgical treatment of spasticity by administrating small amount of baclofen directly into the spinal intrathecal space. This has been developed over the past twenty years, and now it is a well-established procedure. Indication of ITB is otherwise intractable severe spasticity of cerebral or spinal origin. Although the antispastic effect is dramatic, troubles regarding the catheter system is not rare, which may cause withdrawal syndrome. Therefore careful and close follow-up system is indispensable.