Hidden Risks of Multimodal Neuromodulation: Suspected Intrathecal Baclofen Pump Motor Stall Induced by a Vagus Nerve Stimulator Magnet.

Sharma, Priya; Deck, Brigid; Dudiak, Gregor J; Shi, Weibin; Annaswamy, Thiru · Am J Phys Med Rehabil · 2026

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

The increasing use of implantable neuromodulation devices in patients with chronic post-stroke sequelae raises the possibility of unintended device-device interactions. We report a case of recurrent intrathecal baclofen pump motor stalls in a patient with longstanding spasticity following an intracranial hemorrhage, ultimately attributed to magnetic interference from a recently implanted vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) activator magnet. Recognition of this interaction led to prompt resolution and highlights the importance of interdisciplinary awareness and patient education in individuals with multiple implanted neuromodulation systems.