This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

[zenhead]

This device has been suggested to me a few times by my neuro. I find baclofen very effective for leg cramps/spasms, but it does bring with it some sedating effect. With the pump, the baclofen goes right into the bloodstream, without the sedating part. I am very hesitant, for a few reasons. I'm not crazy about the idea of abdominal surgery, with the permanent implantation of the device and the spinal catheter. I also don't like the idea of having this device inside me, dispensing medication, over which I have no control, which I would not be able to adjust. And if I don't like it, there's more surgery to remove it. I'd be interested to hear anyone's experience with this device.

[Moom9335]

MS World.org has many replies to this issue of the Baclofen Pump.
You might want to read thegreekfromdetroit.com on his topic of the results of
his baclofen pump. You will find a wide range of results but the failures do not
write in, in my experience, because it is too devastating to discuss.
The Greek had a terrible experience with the pump as he actually was NOT a candidate because he was
later told that if your MS is not stable for six months and is aggressive, the pump is not a viable option.
It was his last effort to stop his MS and it was a disaster for him.

You will need to research it very carefully and if you decide to do it, interview your doctors very stingently to discuss how many they have implanted and their failure/success rate. Also, you will need to be sure there is a specialist who will know how to titrate the pump which is another major issue.

[zenhead]

so sad to see this man lose his struggle, but so beautifully explained. an eloquent final message. and another check mark on the "No," side of the ledger.