Bilateral, sub-acute subdural hematoma following intra-thecal baclofen pump insertion: case report and literature review

Background Intra-thecal baclofen pump has been proven a safe and effective treatment of spasticity. Subdural hematoma has been rarely described following intra-thecal drug delivery device insertion. Case presentation We report on the rare case of a 45-year-old male with multiple sclerosis who presented with symptoms of intra-cranial hypotension 1 month after insertion of an intra-thecal baclofen pump for severe spasticity. Non-contrast head computerized tomography scan revealed bilateral, sub-acute, subdural hematomas. Due to the nature of the patient’s symptoms suggesting intra-cranial hypotension, surgical repair of the cerebrospinal fluid leak only was initially performed. However, after an initial improvement, the patient experienced increasing in severity headache and worsening tetraparesis. Subsequently, the patient underwent burr hole evacuation of the subdural hematomas with improvement of his symptoms. On the 6-week follow-up, he reported no headache and he was able to walk with assistance. Conclusion Subdural hematomas should be considered in all patients presenting with new neurologic deficits or persistent headache following intra-thecal drug delivery device insertion. Early recognition and appropriate management of this rare but potentially life-threatening complication is of great importance to improve prognosis and patient outcomes.