In treating spasticity, intrathecal baclofen pumps can provide adult and pediatric patients with substantial relief leading to improved functional outcomes and reduced exposure to sedating systemic antispasmodic medications.

 

Unfortunately, implantation of these intrathecal drug delivery systems is not without risk. Aside from medication or dose related complications, surgical complications from intrathecal baclofen pump implantation can be categorized into pump, catheter and wound complications.1 Early recognition of these complications is paramount for patient safety.