Supraspinal baclofen for the treatment of secondary generalized dystonia: A case series

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the use of a novel technique for baclofen delivery using an intrathecal catheter inserted through a lumbar laminotomy with the tip placed at the cisterna magna (supraspinal baclofen (SSB)) for the treatment of severe generalized secondary dystonia. METHODS: A cohort study of six individuals (4M/2F, mean±SD = 15±4.86 years) with generalized dystonia unresponsive to oral medications were treated with SSB and followed clinically for 9 years. Intrathecal catheter tips were positioned under fluoroscopic guidance just above the level of the foramen magnum, at the cisterna magna. RESULTS: Five of the 6 patients experienced sustained benefit with SSB; the group mean modified Fahn-Marsden scale scores decreased from 95 to 55 (t = 3.29, p = 0.02). One patient suffered complex pump pocket infection, and therefore underwent pump explantation. CONCLUSION: Supraspinal baclofen may be an effective method for infusing baclofen into the ventricular system of the brain for treatment of secondary dystonia which is unresponsive to oral therapy.