The effect of continuous intrathecal baclofen on sitting in children with severe cerebral palsy.

Aim: To investigate the effect of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) on sitting in children with cerebral palsy with severe spasticity; and identify potential sub-groups of patients at particular risk of deterioration.

Method: Twenty three children with cerebral palsy, mean age 10 yrs 10 mo were assessed before and after ITB treatment using the Sitting dimension of the Gross Motor Function Measure. Sitting prior to treatment was compared to sitting following ITB treatment in the same children. Exploration of sub groups was also attempted to investigate affects of ITB on sitting according to age and severity of motor impairment.

Results: No significant difference was found in sitting before ITB treatment compared to sitting following insertion of an ITB pump (p = 0.09). No specific age group or classification of motor impairment demonstrated significant deterioration in sitting following ITB treatment.

Conclusion: Sitting does not improve or deteriorate in children following treatment with ITB, independent of age or severity of motor impairment.