The use of an indium111 DTPA flow study in the evaluation of a lumbar swelling in a girl with a baclofen pump.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to introduce a useful diagnostic method to evaluate baclofen pump system-related complications without disturbing the continuous delivery of intrathecal baclofen.


METHODS
We present a case report on the use of an indium (111) diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) flow study in the evaluation of a lumbar swelling in a 16-year-old girl with spastic cerebral palsy, treated with continuous intrathecal baclofen (CITB).


RESULTS
Disconnection or damage of the catheter leading to leakage of baclofen into the lumbar swelling could be ruled out by the use of an indium (111) DTPA flow study. This is the first report to illustrate the implementation of an lndium (111) DTPA flow study without interrupting the infusion of CITB.


CONCLUSIONS
An indium (111) DTPA flow study is a non-invasive, safe and patient friendly diagnostic method which can be of great help in the evaluation of pump- or catheter-related complications and does not need to interfere with the delivery of CITB.
Hoving
M A
MA
Department of Neurology, University Hospital Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands. mahoving@hotmail.com
Smulders
N M
NM
Abdul Fatah
B
B
van Kroonenburgh
M J P G
MJ
van Raak
E P M
EP
Spincemaille
G H J J
GH
Vles
J S H
JS
D000293:Adolescent; D001418:Baclofen / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000188:drug therapy; D003560:Cysts / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D004868:Equipment Failure; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007205:Indium Radioisotopes; D015918:Infusion Pumps, Implantable / Q000009:adverse effects; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae; D004369:Pentetic Acid; D011859:Radiography; D013122:Spinal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*
D007205:Indium Radioisotopes; D004369:Pentetic Acid; D001418:Baclofen