Intrathecal Baclofen and Opioid Therapy: Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak and Infection Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND: Intrathecal drug therapy treats medically refractory spasticity and pain. cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak or infection can limit efficacy and increase morbidity. We aim to evaluate risk factors and outcomes after CSF leaks and infections requiring reoperation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed our 7-year experience of intrathecal baclofen and opioid operations using a protocol designed to limit CSF leakage and infections. Postoperative complication incidence and risk factors for reoperation were compared with published reports. We assessed outcomes after these complications. RESULTS: We analyzed 282 intrathecal baclofen (ITB) and intrathecal opioid (ITO) therapy operations (mean 2.27 -year follow-up). 21% developed CSF leaks overall with similar incidences in ITB and ITO patients (19% vs. 25%, p0.3). Overall, 5% of patients developed deep infections with similar incidences between ITB and ITO cohorts (6% vs. 4%, p0.6). Tobacco use and age <50 years were significantly associated with CSF leak in ITO operations. Underweight body mass index, immunosuppression, tobacco use, and primary implantation were associated with infection. When CSF leak or infection occurred, patients suffered more perioperative adverse events and had elevated 90-day readmission rate compared with those without these complications. CONCLUSIONS: Our 7-year ITB and ITO therapy using the 8781 Ascenda intrathecal catheter highlights a higher reoperation rate for CSF leak and similar infection incidence to reports using traditional catheters. Multiple modifiable risk factors for CSF leak include recent tobacco use among ITO patients. Body mass index optimization and immunosuppressant elimination may reduce reoperation for infection.