Permanent mechanical deformation of an intrathecal baclofen pump secondary to scuba diving: A case report

Abstract

Study design:Case report.Objectives:To describe the case of a spinal cord injury patient that went scuba diving resulting in a mechanical deformation of his intrathecal baclofen pump.Setting:University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium.Methods:Case report.Results:Diving below 10 meters of depth can result in irreversible mechanical damage of the drug reservoir of an intrathecal baclofen pump.Conclusion:Patients with an intrathecal baclofen pump should be warned for the risks associated with scuba diving and should not dive more than 10 meters below sea level. © 2013 International Spinal Cord Society All rights reserved.