Spasticity patients: special considerations

Abstract

Spasticity is a frequent symptom of central nervous system disorders, and in many patients has a significant subjective and objective impact. Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is increasingly utilized to treat severe spasticity refractory to oral antispasticity medications, based on a growing body of evidence demonstrating its efficacy in various conditions. Because ITB involves significant risks, careful patient selection, thorough multidisciplinary patient evaluation and education, treatment planning, standardized surgical techniques, and aggressive management are required to maximize treatment benefits. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of ITB on function and subjective health status.