Why choose the Baclofen pump (intrathecal Baclofen – ITB) over selective posterior rhizotomy (SPR)?
Please see Question 2 and its answer above. Most people feel that because the Baclofen pump requires less surgery and is entirely reversible with a less than one percent chance of a serious lifelong problem, it is the reasonable first choice. It is most important that the child and/or adult receiving the Baclofen pump is able to frequently attend the rehabilitation center for follow-up visits post surgery. If the social and family situation is difficult with minimum follow-up and poor compliance on record for office visits and therapy sessions, then the Baclofen pump should not be implanted. The Baclofen pump is the only choice for adults with spasticity having no serious contractures and failing other more conservative treatment options.
