Abstract
The baclofen pump has been utilized in children with refractory spasticity. However, in children with prior lumbar fusion, the implantation of such a device is difficult and fraught with complications. As an alternative to placing the pump catheter through the lumbar spine, we report our experience with placement of the catheter in the spinal canal via a cervical approach through the foramen magnum. We have followed three patients with prior lumbar fusion and refractory spasticity, each of whom has undergone placement of the intrathecal component of a baclofen pump via the foramen magnum. Appropriate positioning of the catheter tip at the T6 spinal level was determined using intraoperative fluoroscopy. The catheter was then tunneled to the pump in the abdominal wall. All patients experienced a significant decrease in the severity of spasticity with pump placement. The pumps continued to function properly over a follow-up period of 24, 24, and 44 months respectively. In one patient, the catheter recoiled into the subcutaneous tissues several months after its placement, thus necessitating repositioning. One of the pumps was removed 2 years later secondary to a VP shunt infection. However, there were no immediate complications related to placement of the spinal catheter. Placement of the intraspinal component of a baclofen pump via the foramen magnum is a viable alternative for patients with spastic quadriparesis with prior lumbar fusion. The tip of the spinal catheter can be positioned in the thoracic region in a similar manner to the placement traditional lumbar pumps. In our series, there were no adverse sequelae related to the surgery or catheter positioning.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.