What is a Baclofen pump?
A Baclofen pump refers to a system that includes a pump and catheter that delivers medication into the space around the spinal cord within the spine. This system can help relieve symptoms of muscle spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis and other disorders that affect movement. Baclofen pump therapy offers an alternative treatment to taking Baclofen orally or when oral treatment has failed or is maximised.
What is a Baclofen pump used for?
A Baclofen pump contains medication that eases symptoms of disorders or conditions that affect movement, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy. This pump is also used for treating spasticity that has been linked to spinal cord injuries or brain injuries. When the medication from a Baclofen pump is given, it helps relieve muscle spasms and muscle stiffness that can interfere with everyday activities and basic movements, such as walking.
How does a Baclofen pump work?
A Baclofen pump contains medication that helps ease hyperactive reflexes in the spine. This can relieve muscle spasms, allowing patients to do their normal activities. The pump in this system is implanted in the abdominal area just under the skin’s surface, while the catheter is implanted below the skin and joined to the pump at one end. The catheter’s other end is placed in the spine at certain points. The pump’s battery helps ensure that it works properly in order to deliver medicine directly into the spine through the catheter.
Is a Baclofen pump safe?
Baclofen pump therapy is considered a safe method of relieving muscle spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis or other movement disorders. There are some side effects associated with Baclofen pumps, although these are typically mild and don’t last long. These side effects include feeling dizzy, being drowsy, and feeling weak. Other possible side effects include headache and nausea. Patients shouldn’t stop using a Baclofen pump abruptly, since this can cause seizures and other symptoms of withdrawal.
Is a Baclofen pump effective?
A Baclofen pump is considered effective for easing muscle spasms and stiffness. Using a Baclofen pump instead of taking Baclofen by mouth offers certain advantages, such as improved control over spasticity symptoms, ongoing relief rather than temporary relief, fewer side effects, and flexible programming to control when medicine is delivered.
