Spinal Cord Injury - These Treatments May Provide the Best Outcomes

March 28, 2023, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

New research is underway to determine which treatments provide the best neurological outcomes in acute spinal cord injury. Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that can lead to severe and permanent neurological deficits. SCI is common in sports accidents, car accidents, falls from heights, and workplace injuries.

The neurological outcomes in SCI depend on the severity of the injury, the level of the lesion, and the promptness of treatment. There are several treatments available for acute SCI, including surgical decompression, pharmacological interventions, and rehabilitation.

Surgical Decompression:

Surgical decompression is the primary treatment for acute SCI. It involves removing any pressure or compression on the spinal cord caused by bone fragments, disc herniation, or ligamentous injuries. The goal of surgical decompression is to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord and prevent further damage.

Several studies have shown that early surgical decompression within 24 hours of injury leads to better neurological outcomes in acute SCI. A study by Fehlings et al. found that patients who underwent surgery within 24 hours had better motor and sensory function than those who underwent surgery after 24 hours. Another study by Vaccaro et al. found that early surgical decompression resulted in improved neurological outcomes and reduced mortality in patients with acute SCI.

Pharmacological (drug based) Interventions:

Pharmacological interventions are used to minimize the secondary damage that occurs after acute SCI. Secondary damage is caused by a cascade of events, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death. Several drugs have been studied for their potential neuroprotective effects in acute SCI, including methylprednisolone, minocycline, and erythropoietin.

Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid that has been used for the treatment of acute SCI for decades. However, its use remains controversial due to its side effects and potential harm. A recent study by found it did not improve neurological outcomes in acute SCI and was associated with an increased risk of adverse events.

Minocycline is an antibiotic that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in animal models of SCI. A randomized controlled trial found that it improved neurological outcomes and reduced secondary damage in patients with acute SCI.

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. It has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in animal models of SCI. A meta-analysis found that EPO improved neurological outcomes and reduced secondary damage in patients with acute SCI.

Rehabilitation:

Rehabilitation is an essential part of the treatment of acute SCI. It involves a multidisciplinary approach to help patients regain function and independence. Rehabilitation includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support.

Several studies have shown that early rehabilitation leads to better neurological outcomes in acute SCI. One study found that patients who received intensive rehabilitation within three months of injury had better motor and sensory function than those who received standard rehabilitation.

Conclusion:

Surgical decompression, pharmacological interventions, and rehabilitation are all important treatments for acute SCI. Early surgical decompression within 24 hours of injury leads to better neurological outcomes. Minocycline and erythropoietin have shown potential neuroprotective effects in acute SCI, while methylprednisolone remains controversial. Early rehabilitation is also essential for improving neurological outcomes in acute SCI. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment that includes prompt surgical intervention, pharmacological interventions, and rehabilitation is crucial for optimizing neurological outcomes in acute SCI.

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About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

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