Optimizing Physical Assessment in Intrathecal Baclofen Screening Trials for High-Performing Patients With Spastic Paraparesis

Objectives: Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is well documented as an effective treatment option for severe spasticity. Before ITB implantation, trials are conducted to evaluate efficacy, safety, and candidate suitability. While many centers conduct ITB trials, appropriate physical assessment has not been fully established. This study aimed to identify useful physical assessments for ITB trials in spastic paraparesis.

Materials and methods: Patients with spasticity who experienced paraplegia for at least 12 months and underwent ITB trials in Chiba University Hospital were included. Physical functions were assessed before ITB administration and 4 hours after ITB injection on each day of the ITB trial. Physical assessments included targeted neurological and musculoskeletal tests (modified Ashworth scale, deep tendon reflexes, clonus, active range of motion, and manual muscle test) and mobility tests (Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test [TUG], 10-Meter Walk Test, and step length).

Results: A total of 22 patients underwent ITB trials. Among the physical assessments, the Modified Ashworth Scale, reflexes, clonus, active range of motion at hip abduction and ankle dorsiflexion, TUG, and step length showed significant differences between the assessments conducted before and during ITB trials. Conversely, active range of motion in most joints, the manual muscle test, and the 10-Meter Walk Test did not show significant differences. The total score of the Berg Balance Scale did not show significant differences, whereas only the item of "placing alternate foot on stool" was significantly different.

Conclusions: Spasticity assessments, including the Modified Ashworth Scale and reflexes, and mobility assessments such as TUG and step length, were useful for detecting the effectiveness of ITB screening for spastic paraparesis. The TUG may be particularly suitable for detecting effects, as it is a quantitative and reliable measure that reflects actual movement in daily living activities.