Spasticity in adults: management using botulinum toxin
Published: 24 April 2009
Royal College of Physicians national guidelines now available.
Local intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin (BT) is an established treatment for spasticity, with strong evidence for its efficacy. These guidelines provide clinicians with the knowledge and tools to use BT effectively. The keys to successful intervention are appropriate patient selection, establishment of clear goals for treatment and appropriate follow-up therapy. The guidelines provide clear recommendations on:
- coordinated spasticity management
- patient selection
- prescribing, supply and administration of BT by non-medical injectors
- follow-up and outcome evaluation.
Tools to aid clinicians include a comprehensive and detailed list of injection sites together with appropriate dosages at each site, and several methods of assessing spasticity and outcome of treatment.
If used according to the guidance, BT can improve the lives of those suffering from spasticity and of those caring for them, as well as reducing the overall costs of ongoing care. The guidance is essential reading for all clinicians dealing with stroke patients, people with multiple sclerosis, and patients with severe traumatic brain injury.
To order
The guidelines cost £20.00. Please send payment to: Publications Department, Royal College of Physicians of London, 11 St Andrews Place, Regent's Park, London NW1 4LE, fax request to: 020 7486 5425, or visit: www.rcplondon.ac.uk/pubs