How long does baclofen pump replacement take?

Follow-up will be needed as the pump will need to be refilled every couple of months, depending on the pump size, concentration and dose. Refills are done in the office using a syringe and needle and take approximately fifteen minutes to complete.

What does a baclofen pump do?

It is used to deliver baclofen directly into the spinal canal. The pump is attached to a catheter (tube), which helps direct the medicine right to a specific area of the spinal cord (called the intrathecal space). This allows the medication to be delivered exactly where it works to help reduce the spasticity.

How often does a baclofen pump need to be refilled?

The pump needs to be refilled at regular intervals (usually every 1 to 6 months) by a trained healthcare professional who possesses the equipment needed. The pump is refilled by inserting a needle through the skin into a refill port on the pump.

How much does a baclofen pump cost?

The cost per QALY ranged from $10,550 to $19,560, an acceptable ratio compared to other interventions. Early symptoms of baclofen withdrawal may include return of baseline spasticity, pruritus, hypotension and paresthesias. Priapism may develop or recur if treatment with intrathecal baclofen is interrupted.

Does baclofen work right away?

Response and effectiveness. Baclofen is rapidly absorbed, although absorption may be reduced with higher dosages. There is a wide variation in the way individuals respond to baclofen, with some people reporting a reduction in symptoms of muscle spasm within a few hours, whereas for some others it may take several weeks …

What are the side effects of the Baclofen pump?

What are the possible complications of a baclofen pump?

  • risk of a bad reaction to anesthesia.
  • risk of bleeding.
  • risk of spinal fluid leak.
  • risk of infection of the pump, catheter or wound (from surgery)
  • mild changes in bladder control (usually temporary)
  • mild changes in sexual or bowel function.

How effective is a baclofen pump?

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 is baclofen pump therapy?

Intrathecal baclofen therapy (ITB) consists of delivering a liquid form of baclofen into the spinal fluid, using a device called a baclofen pump. ITB is approved by the FDA for the treatment of severe spasticity.

How does baclofen pump work?

A baclofen pump is a little machine that is placed under the skin of one side of the abdomen (belly) near the hip bone. It is used to deliver baclofen directly into the spinal canal. The pump is attached to a catheter (tube), which helps direct the medicine right to a specific area of the spinal cord (called the intrathecal space).