In Brief: Medtronic
Executive Summary
Medtronic: SynchroMed pump using Ciba-Geigy's Lioresal (baclofen) Intrathecal receives FDA clearance for Treatment Protocol in the control of spasticity of cerebral origin, including spastic cerebral palsy and severe spasticity related to head trauma. The drug-device combo has been marketed since October 1992 for spasticity in patients with spinal cord lesions or multiple sclerosis. Medtronic estimates there are 35,000 cerebral palsy patients in the U.S. who might benefit from the therapy. Under the Treatment Protocol, Medtronic charges for the SynchroMed pump, which lists for about $7,000, but will provide the drug free...