Neurophysiologic evaluation of spastic hypertonia: implications for management of the patient with the intrathecal baclofen pump

Abstract

A number of techniques attempt to objectively quantify various clinical characteristics associated with spastic hypertonia and related motor disorders. These range in cost, complexity, physiologic basis of measured response, and invasiveness. With a greater range of treatment options for spasticity and an increase in the number of centers participating in studies of interventions for spasticity, published reports reflect increasing use of objective quantification techniques. We review studies that highlight the potential utility of neurophysiologic techniques, including the H-reflex, F-wave, and flexion withdrawal reflex, in the objective evaluation of response to intrathecal baclofen administration. The accumulated knowledge suggests that neurophysiologic evaluation is useful for assessing spinal cord responsiveness, and we recommend it as an adjunct to clinical evaluation when judging the overall effectiveness of intrathecal baclofen administration.