Management of Intrathecal Baclofen Pump System Malfunction and the Value of the Radio-Opaque Catheter Dye Study: A Retrospective Data Analysis of 49 Pump System Investigations Over a Seven-Year Period.
Lee Heesook H, Betteridge Nicola N, Keenan Elizabeth E, Farrell Rachel R et al.
Timely and thorough investigation of intrathecal baclofen (ITB) pump system malfunction is essential for optimal spasticity management. We reviewed seven years of investigation data to determine the value of the radio-opaque catheter dye study (RCDS) in confirming suspected ITB pump system malfunctions. A retrospective review of electronic medical records was conducted for patients admitted under the author's spasticity service for ITB pump system investigation or catheter revision surgery from January 2018 to December 2024 (a seven-year period). Demographic data, investigation results, and ITB dose at various stages were collected and compared. In the ITB cohort of 188 patients, 41 patients experienced at least one suspected ITB system malfunction (49 admissions). There were five admissions where investigations were not performed, all of which proceeded to catheter revision based on a strong clinical suspicion of catheter malfunction. Catheter access port (CAP) procedures were completed in 44 admissions; in nine of these, it was not possible to aspirate, and all nine proceeded directly to catheter revision. Of the 35 successful CAP procedures, 22 proceeded to RCDS; only one was positive and went directly to catheter revision surgery. Thirteen of the 21 admissions with a negative RCDS underwent lumbar puncture (LP) boluses; eight of these demonstrated a superior effect to pump boluses, suggesting catheter malfunction. Of the eight admissions with negative RCDS without LP, four went on to have catheter revision due to a clear history of fluctuating spasticity. In total, 31 of the 49 admissions investigated showed evidence of catheter malfunction; 27 proceeded to operating theatre for revision surgery. The RCDS showed a high false-negative rate and provided a low value in identifying ITB pump system malfunction. Instead, careful clinical assessment, early CAP procedure, and consideration of a pump ITB bolus with or without a comparison LP bolus are more valuable and effective.