Intrathecal baclofen therapy; patient selection & team approach.

Abstract

Intrathecal baclofen therapy (ITB therapy) is useful for severe spasticity. However, the Ministry of health, labour and welfare has not allowed the therapy in Japan. A clinical trial of intrathecal baclofen therapy is currently under way. In this paper the situation in Japan with regard to ITB therapy is described and information for physicians in Japan given from our experience. Team approach is important for ITB therapy. Special attention should be paid to patient selection.