Intrathecal baclofen therapy for spasticity: A compliance-based study to indicate effectiveness

BACKGROUND: Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy using a programmable battery-based pump is a well-recognized option in the treatment of patients with refractory spasticity. Improvements in clinical scale scores for muscle spasticity among this heterogeneous group of patients may not reflect the functional benefits of this therapeutic option. The aim of our study is to report the efficacy of ITB therapy by setting the patient's compliance at the 2-year follow-up after pump implantation as an indicator of treatment efficacy, as appreciated by the patients or their caregivers. METHODS: A cohort of 31 patients admitted for ITB therapy was studied. Treatment and follow-up expenses were supported by national health services. Compliance to follow-up visits 2 years after implantation was used as an indicator of treatment efficacy. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients (mean age: 28.8 ± 19.3 years) were included in the study. At the 2-year post-implantation set point, 20 patients continued to comply with the treatment program. Those 20 patients reported at least moderate improvements in their symptoms, which justified treatment compliance. CONCLUSION: At the 2-year follow-up post-implantation set point, nearly 3 of 4 patients (74.1%) continued to comply with the treatment, indicating treatment efficacy.