What is baclofen pump used for?

Baclofen is a muscle relaxant medicine commonly used to decrease spasticity related to multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or other neurological diseases.

How does intrathecal baclofen pump work?

A baclofen pump delivers a precise amount of Lioresal® Intrathecal (a liquid form of baclofen) directly into the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord. This area is called the intrathecal space. A surgeon places the pump just under the skin of the abdomen. The pump is programmed wirelessly to release medication.

What are the side effects of the baclofen pump?

Common side effects may include:

• drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, tiredness;
• headache;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• nausea, constipation; or.
• urinating more often than usual.

What kind of pump is used for baclofen?

Abstract: Intrathecal baclofen therapy, given via an implanted pump in the abdominal wall either as a continuous infusion or bolus dosing, has been used for more than 25 years to treat thespasticity and dystonia as- sociated with various brain and spinal cord conditions.

How to schedule an intrathecal baclofen pump replacement?

Call 651-290-8707 for an appointment. You are scheduled for surgery to have an intrathecal baclofen pump replaced. Here are some helpful reminders that will make your hospital stay more comfortable.

How does the baclofen pump help with spasticity?

Normally, your muscles get electrical signals from your nerves that tell them when to tense and relax. Spasticity happens when these signals become uneven, usually because the nerves have been damaged. This makes muscles tense up or move when you don’t want them to. Baclofen works by restoring the normal signals.

What happens when a baclofen catheter is replaced?

A critical alarm (two tones) will then sound, and the pump will stop. A stopped pump results in loss of therapy, which can cause dangerous symptoms of baclofen withdrawal. Your doctor will determine at the time of pump replacement if you should also get a new catheter. Sometimes the catheter can stay in place and be connected to the new pump.