Pediatric neurology
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Pediatric neurology · Apr 2009
Multicenter Study Clinical TrialIntrathecal baclofen infusion for ambulant children with cerebral palsy.
This study assessed the effects of continuous intrathecal infusion of baclofen on the gait of ambulant children with cerebral palsy. Details, collected retrospectively before and after pump implantation, included Gillette Functional Assessment Questionnaire score, use of walking aids, Ashworth Scale score, and joint angle at which the stretch reflex was triggered. Twenty-one ambulant children and young adults with cerebral palsy were included. ⋯ Seven children were able to use less supportive walking aids. Continuous intrathecal baclofen infusion appears to decrease spasticity and improve the gait capacity of children with cerebral palsy. Prospective, controlled studies are necessary to prove the functional effect of intrathecal baclofen infusion.