I have a pump and it has been very helpful. Standing for transfers is much
easier. Most things are easier. We did have to play with the dose so I
wouldn't lose trunk control. One thing to think about is the placement of
the catheter tip (where the baclofen reaches the spinal cord). I wanted my
arms to benefit, so mine is at T6. This may mean that my trunk is more
affected than someone with a lower catheter placement, I'm not sure.

Unfortunately, I have experienced significant side effects from the pump. I
feel a burning sensation in my trunk, arms, and face. This is a rare but
very unpleasant side effect. I'm working with pain management docs to try
and get this sorted out. Most people with the pump have no side effects and
good results.

You may also want to post to the CPParent list (go to
http://www.cpparent.org/ to subscribe).

Pam




> =20
> My 13 year old son (quad CP) has had the trial for intrathecal baclofen =
> and has been deemed a good candidate. .
> He  walks with a walker (sith increasing difficulty due to stiffness of =
> legs), has never had any surgeries and as a baby was extremely floppy. =
> With a great deal of physical therapy he has developed some strength in =
> his torso (can now sit well, uses a manual wheelchair moderately well).
>
> He started developing spasticity in his legs when he was about 7 years =
> old.  He has had botox twice - the first time it worked and then second =
> time the results were minimal.
>
> I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has had direct experience =
> with use of the baclofen pump
> Specifically I would like to know:
> Did the procedure result in improved function (better walking or =
> standing)?
> Were there any negative side-effects? (i.e. decreased function such as =
> floppy torso?)
>
>