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Intrathecal Baclofen Clinic You are here:HomeHealth ProfessionalsCommunity and Aged CareHealth Independence Program (HIP)Complex Disability ServicesIntrathecal Baclofen Clinic Baclofen is a muscle relaxant drug used to decrease spasticity. Baclofen can be taken orally or when the side effects of increasing oral dosage become a concern, it may be delivered into the spinal fluid (intrathecally) via a surgically implanted pump and catheter. The vast majority of patients seen in this clinic have a diagnosis of cerebral palsy and we have very close links with the Young Adult Complex Disability Service(YACDS) which is responsible for transitioning these patients from the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) into adult health services provided (mainly) by St. Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne. We do not see patients from other diagnostic groups unless they are directly referred by specialists at RCH to YACDS and have an intrathecal baclofen pump in situ. This service provides : Regular refill of intrathecal pumps which distribute baclofen only for the management of spasticity. Dosage monitoring and dosage adjustment of baclofen delivered by the in situ pumps. This clinic does not assess patients for the implantation of de novo pumps. These patients need to be assessed through the YACDS (insert link) or through the Spasticity Management clinic (insert link) Following surgery, these patients may then be followed up in the clinic. Patient Information Intrathecal Pumps and MRIs If you have an intrathecal pump and you are scheduled for an MRI, you will need to contact the MRI service. They will need to organize for a representative from Medtronics to conduct a pump check as soon as the procedure is completed. Alternatively you may contact your Medtronic representative directly and ask them to liaise with the service providing the MRI. Our Team Our team consists of: Rehabilitation Consultant Clinic Co-ordinator Physiotherapist Our Services This is a public outpatient service. All patients need to be referred by a treating Specialist physician. Almost without exception, patients will be referred to the clinic via the Royal Children’s Hospital or via the YACDS team within St Vincent’s Hospital. Medical services are usually bulk billed and we will ask for a GP referral so that this can be carried out. Our Location St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Ground Floor Bolte Wing (Building F) 14 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy 3065 Clinic Times Tuesdays - 9.00am – 4.00pm Useful Links Young Adult Complex Disability Service Contact Us Tel: (03) 9231 3900 Fax: (03) 9231 3808