[Neuromodulation of spasticity in children by intrathecal baclofen].
BACKGROUND
Treatment with intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is an important part of the complex therapy of patients with cerebral spasticity aiming to improve the motoric functions and to reduce pain intensity.


METHODS
ITB was started in the Orthopaedic Hospital in Speising in 1999. From 1999 to 2006 a total of 15 children aged 3 to 16 years old were selected for this special treatment.


RESULTS
The average degree of spasticity according to Ashworth (scale 1-5) could be reduced by ITB from 4.38 to 3.0, the time spent sitting could be increased from 3.3 to 5.8h per day and the pain intensity (VAS 1-10) could be reduced from 4.2 to 0.6. The time necessary for nursing treatment was shortened from 7.5 to 3.4 (VAS 1-10). Also improved was the emotional situation, the ability to swallow, the posture of the head and the concentration ability.


CONCLUSIONS
ITB provides neuromodulation even in pediatric patients with complex neuromotoric spasticity.
Cumlivski
R
R
Abteilung für Anästhesie und Intensivmedizin, Orthopädisches Spital Speising GmbH, Speisinger Str. 109, 1130, Wien, Osterreich.
Redl
G
G
Strobl
W
W
Girsch
W
W
Krebs
A
A
Machowetz
P
P
D000293:Adolescent; D001418:Baclofen / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D015918:Infusion Pumps, Implantable; D007278:Injections, Spinal; D008297:Male; D009125:Muscle Relaxants, Central / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D015701:Near Drowning / Q000150:complications; D009460:Neurologic Examination / Q000187:drug effects; D010147:Pain Measurement
D009125:Muscle Relaxants, Central; D001418:Baclofen