1
|
Scheffler MS, Martin CA, Dietz V, Faraji AH, Sayenko DG. Synergistic implications of combinatorial rehabilitation approaches using spinal stimulation on therapeutic outcomes in spinal cord injury. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 165:166-179. [PMID: 39033698 PMCID: PMC11325878 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this narrative review was to locate and assess recent articles employing a combinatorial approach of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation or epidural spinal cord stimulation with additional modalities. We sought to provide relevant knowledge of recent literature and advance understanding on outcomes reported, to better equip those working in neurorehabilitation and neuromodulation. METHODS Articles were selected and analyzed based on study approach, stimulation parameters, outcome measures, and presence of neurophysiological data to support findings. RESULTS This narrative review analyzed 44 recent articles employing a combinatorial approach of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation or epidural spinal cord stimulation with additional modalities. Our findings showed that limited research exists regarding such combinatorial approaches, particularly when considering modalities beyond activity-based training. There is also limited consistency in neurophysiological and quality of life outcomes. CONCLUSION Articles involving transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation or epidural spinal cord stimulation with other modalities are limited in the current body of literature. Authors noted variety in approach, sample size, and use of participant perspective. Opportunities are present to add high quality research to this body of literature. SIGNIFICANCE Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation and epidural spinal cord stimulation are emerging in research as viable avenues for targeting improvement of function after traumatic spinal cord injury, particularly when combined with activity-based training. This body of literature demonstrates viable areas for growth from both neurophysiological and functional perspectives. Further, exploration of novel combinatorial approaches holds potential to offer enhanced contributions to clinical and neurophysiological rehabilitation and research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S Scheffler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Catherine A Martin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Valerie Dietz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Amir H Faraji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dimitry G Sayenko
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Veith DD, Gill ML, Beck LA, Whitmarsh CL, Fernandez KA, Linde MB, Asp AJ, Mills CJ, Bendel MA, Grahn PJ, Zhao KD. Functional outcomes and participants' perspectives during short-term application of spinal stimulation in individuals with spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2024:1-12. [PMID: 39172032 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2024.2383377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to quantify changes in performance of task-specific motor activities over 12 motor rehabilitation sessions with lumbosacral spinal cord stimulation (SCS) via either transcutaneous stimulation or epidural stimulation. Both stimulation modalities have been used in recent years to restore functions lost to spinal cord injury (SCI). Secondary outcomes examine participants' perspectives captured via the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) upon study completion to further understand their perception of SCS. METHODS Six individuals with SCI completed 12 sessions with one modality of SCS during supine and/or side-lying, seated forward reaching, and standing activities. Changes in volitional lower extremity movement, the number of points of contact needed at hips and/or knees to facilitate standing, and changes in seated forward reaching distance were used to quantify performance. The UEQ was administered to gauge participants' perspectives following use of SCS to enable functions impaired due to SCI. RESULTS For all participants, performance of motor activities improved with SCS compared to without stimulation. Responses for the UEQ showed an overall positive perception of trialing SCS with rehabilitation to enhance motor functions impaired by SCI. CONCLUSIONS Regardless of injury severity, location of injury, time since SCI, or SCS modality, all participants experienced gains in motor function in the presence of SCS combined with a condensed rehabilitation program. However, no evidence of sustained motor functions was found in the absence of SCS. UEQ results highlight the positive perception of SCS with rehabilitation as well as the importance of consulting persons with lived experience of SCS during clinical trial design and protocol development.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05095454.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel D Veith
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Megan L Gill
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lisa A Beck
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Crystal L Whitmarsh
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - K A Fernandez
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Minnesota, USA
| | - Margaux B Linde
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anders J Asp
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Candee J Mills
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mark A Bendel
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Peter J Grahn
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kristin D Zhao
- Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Minnesota, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hu X, Feng J, Lu J, Pang R, Zhang A, Liu J, Gou X, Bai X, Wang J, Chang C, Yin J, Wang Y, Xiao H, Wang Q, Cheng H, Chang Y, Wang W. Effects of exoskeleton-assisted walking on bowel function in motor-complete spinal cord injury patients: involvement of the brain-gut axis, a pilot study. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1395671. [PMID: 38952922 PMCID: PMC11215087 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1395671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Evidence has demonstrated that exoskeleton robots can improve intestinal function in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unelucidated. This study investigated the effects of exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) on intestinal function and intestinal flora structure in T2-L1 motor complete paraplegia patients. The results showed that five participants in the EAW group and three in the conventional group reported improvements in at least one bowel management index, including an increased frequency of bowel evacuations, less time spent on bowel management per day, and less external assistance (manual digital stimulation, medication, and enema usage). After 8 weeks of training, the amount of glycerol used in the EAW group decreased significantly (p <0.05). The EAW group showed an increasing trend in the neurogenic bowel dysfunction (NBD) score after 8 weeks of training, while the conventional group showed a worsening trend. Patients who received the EAW intervention exhibited a decreased abundance of Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia, while Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria were upregulated. In addition, there were decreases in the abundances of Bacteroides, Prevotella, Parabacteroides, Akkermansia, Blautia, Ruminococcus 2, and Megamonas. In contrast, Ruminococcus 1, Ruminococcaceae UCG002, Faecalibacterium, Dialister, Ralstonia, Escherichia-Shigella, and Bifidobacterium showed upregulation among the top 15 genera. The abundance of Ralstonia was significantly higher in the EAW group than in the conventional group, and Dialister increased significantly in EAW individuals at 8 weeks. This study suggests that EAW can improve intestinal function of SCI patients in a limited way, and may be associated with changes in the abundance of intestinal flora, especially an increase in beneficial bacteria. In the future, we need to further understand the changes in microbial groups caused by EAW training and all related impact mechanisms, especially intestinal flora metabolites. Clinical trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiachun Lu
- Chengdu Eighth People’s Hospital (Geriatric Hospital of Chengdu Medical College), Chengdu, China
| | - Rizhao Pang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Anren Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiancheng Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiang Gou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Xingang Bai
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| | - Junyu Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Chang
- Chengdu Eighth People’s Hospital (Geriatric Hospital of Chengdu Medical College), Chengdu, China
| | - Jie Yin
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
- College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunyun Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
- College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hua Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
- College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Care Alliance Jinchen Rehabilitation Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- School of Automation Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Youjun Chang
- Sichuan Provincial Rehabilitation Hospital, Affiliated Rehabilitation Hospital of Chengdu University of T.C.M., Chengdu, China
| | - Wenchun Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lana JF, Navani A, Jeyaraman M, Santos N, Pires L, Santos GS, Rodrigues IJ, Santos D, Mosaner T, Azzini G, da Fonseca LF, de Macedo AP, Huber SC, de Moraes Ferreira Jorge D, Purita J. Sacral Bioneuromodulation: The Role of Bone Marrow Aspirate in Spinal Cord Injuries. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:461. [PMID: 38790327 PMCID: PMC11118755 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11050461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a severe trauma to the nervous system, leading to significant neurological damage, chronic inflammation, and persistent neuropathic pain. Current treatments, including pharmacotherapy, immobilization, physical therapy, and surgical interventions, often fall short in fully addressing the underlying pathophysiology and resultant disabilities. Emerging research in the field of regenerative medicine has introduced innovative approaches such as autologous orthobiologic therapies, with bone marrow aspirate (BMA) being particularly notable for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. This review focuses on the potential of BMA to modulate inflammatory pathways, enhance tissue regeneration, and restore neurological function disrupted by SCI. We hypothesize that BMA's bioactive components may stimulate reparative processes at the cellular level, particularly when applied at strategic sites like the sacral hiatus to influence lumbar centers and higher neurological structures. By exploring the mechanisms through which BMA influences spinal repair, this review aims to establish a foundation for its application in clinical settings, potentially offering a transformative approach to SCI management that extends beyond symptomatic relief to promoting functional recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Fábio Lana
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
- Clinical Research, Anna Vitória Lana Institute (IAVL), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil
- Medical School, Max Planck University Center (UniMAX), Indaiatuba 13343-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Annu Navani
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
- Medical School, Max Planck University Center (UniMAX), Indaiatuba 13343-060, SP, Brazil
- Comprehensive Spine & Sports Center, Campbell, CA 95008, USA
| | - Madhan Jeyaraman
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
- Department of Orthopaedics, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Napoliane Santos
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Luyddy Pires
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Gabriel Silva Santos
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Izair Jefthé Rodrigues
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Douglas Santos
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Tomas Mosaner
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Gabriel Azzini
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Lucas Furtado da Fonseca
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
- Medical School, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04024-002, SP, Brazil
| | - Alex Pontes de Macedo
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Stephany Cares Huber
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Daniel de Moraes Ferreira Jorge
- Department of Orthopedics, Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine (BIRM), Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (J.F.L.); (N.S.); (L.P.); (I.J.R.); (D.S.); (T.M.); (G.A.); (L.F.d.F.); (A.P.d.M.); (S.C.H.); (D.d.M.F.J.)
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
| | - Joseph Purita
- Regenerative Medicine, Orthoregen International Course, Indaiatuba 13334-170, SP, Brazil; (A.N.); (J.P.)
- Medical School, Max Planck University Center (UniMAX), Indaiatuba 13343-060, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kanakis AK, Benetos IS, Evangelopoulos DS, Vlamis J, Vasiliadis ES, Kotroni A, Pneumaticos SG. Electrical Stimulation and Motor Function Rehabilitation in Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e61436. [PMID: 38947571 PMCID: PMC11214755 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to devastating motor impairments, significantly affecting the quality of life of affected individuals. Over the last decades, spinal cord electrical stimulation seems to have encouraging effects on the motor recovery of impacted patients. This review aimed to identify clinical trials focused on motor function recovery through the application of epidural electrical stimulation, transcutaneous electrical stimulation, and functional electrical stimulation. Several clinical trials met these criteria, focusing on the impact of the aforementioned interventions on walking, standing, swimming, trunk stability, and upper extremity functionality, particularly grasp. After a thorough PubMed online database research, 37 clinical trials were included in this review, with a total of 192 patients. Many of them appeared to have an improvement in function, either clinically assessed or recorded through electromyography. This review outlines the various ways electrical stimulation techniques can aid in the motor recovery of SCI patients. It stresses the ongoing need for medical research to refine these techniques and ultimately enhance rehabilitation results in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asterios K Kanakis
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, KAT Hospital, Athens, GRC
| | - Ioannis S Benetos
- 3rd Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) KAT Hospital, Athens, GRC
| | | | - John Vlamis
- 3rd Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) KAT Hospital, Athens, GRC
| | - Elias S Vasiliadis
- 3rd Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) KAT Hospital, Athens, GRC
| | - Aikaterini Kotroni
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, KAT Hospital, Athens, GRC
| | - Spyros G Pneumaticos
- 3rd Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) KAT Hospital, Athens, GRC
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Alazzam AM, Ballance WB, Smith AC, Rejc E, Weber KA, Trainer R, Gorgey AS. Peak Slope Ratio of the Recruitment Curves Compared to Muscle Evoked Potentials to Optimize Standing Configurations with Percutaneous Epidural Stimulation after Spinal Cord Injury. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1344. [PMID: 38592158 PMCID: PMC10932170 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Percutaneous spinal cord epidural stimulation (pSCES) has effectively restored varying levels of motor control in persons with motor complete spinal cord injury (SCI). Studying and standardizing the pSCES configurations may yield specific motor improvements. Previously, reliance on the amplitude of the SCES-evoked potentials (EPs) was used to determine the correct stimulation configurations. Methods: We, hereby, retrospectively examined the effects of wide and narrow-field configurations on establishing the motor recruitment curves of motor units of three different agonist-antagonist muscle groups. Magnetic resonance imaging was also used to individualize SCI participants (n = 4) according to their lesion characteristics. The slope of the recruitment curves using a six-degree polynomial function was calculated to derive the slope ratio for the agonist-antagonist muscle groups responsible for standing. Results: Axial damage ratios of the spinal cord ranged from 0.80 to 0.92, indicating at least some level of supraspinal connectivity for all participants. Despite the close range of these ratios, standing motor performance was enhanced using different stimulation configurations in the four persons with SCI. A slope ratio of ≥1 was considered for the recommended configurations necessary to achieve standing. The retrospectively identified configurations using the supine slope ratio of the recruitment curves of the motor units agreed with that visually inspected muscle EPs amplitude of the extensor relative to the flexor muscles in two of the four participants. Two participants managed to advance the selected configurations into independent standing performance after using tonic stimulation. The other two participants required different levels of assistance to attain standing performance. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the peak slope ratio of the muscle agonists-antagonists recruitment curves may potentially identify the pSCES configurations necessary to achieve standing in persons with SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad M. Alazzam
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23249, USA; (A.M.A.); (W.B.B.)
| | - William B. Ballance
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23249, USA; (A.M.A.); (W.B.B.)
| | - Andrew C. Smith
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Enrico Rejc
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy;
| | - Kenneth A. Weber
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA;
| | - Robert Trainer
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - Ashraf S. Gorgey
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23249, USA; (A.M.A.); (W.B.B.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chalif JI, Chavarro VS, Mensah E, Johnston B, Fields DP, Chalif EJ, Chiang M, Sutton O, Yong R, Trumbower R, Lu Y. Epidural Spinal Cord Stimulation for Spinal Cord Injury in Humans: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1090. [PMID: 38398403 PMCID: PMC10889415 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) represents a major health challenge, often leading to significant and permanent sensorimotor and autonomic dysfunctions. This study reviews the evolving role of epidural spinal cord stimulation (eSCS) in treating chronic SCI, focusing on its efficacy and safety. The objective was to analyze how eSCS contributes to the recovery of neurological functions in SCI patients. (2) Methods: We utilized the PRISMA guidelines and performed a comprehensive search across MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore databases up until September 2023. We identified studies relevant to eSCS in SCI and extracted assessments of locomotor, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and genitourinary functions. (3) Results: A total of 64 studies encompassing 306 patients were identified. Studies investigated various stimulation devices, parameters, and rehabilitation methods. Results indicated significant improvements in motor function: 44% of patients achieved assisted or independent stepping or standing; 87% showed enhanced muscle activity; 65% experienced faster walking speeds; and 80% improved in overground walking. Additionally, eSCS led to better autonomic function, evidenced by improvements in bladder and sexual functions, airway pressures, and bowel movements. Notable adverse effects included device migration, infections, and post-implant autonomic dysreflexia, although these were infrequent. (4) Conclusion: Epidural spinal cord stimulation is emerging as an effective and generally safe treatment for chronic SCI, particularly when combined with intensive physical rehabilitation. Future research on standardized stimulation parameters and well-defined therapy regimens will optimize benefits for specific patient populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. I. Chalif
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (J.I.C.); (V.S.C.); (B.J.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
| | - V. S. Chavarro
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (J.I.C.); (V.S.C.); (B.J.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Hospital Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02115, USA
| | - E. Mensah
- Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - B. Johnston
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (J.I.C.); (V.S.C.); (B.J.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
| | - D. P. Fields
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA;
| | - E. J. Chalif
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (J.I.C.); (V.S.C.); (B.J.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
| | - M. Chiang
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Hospital Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology Perioperative and Pain Management, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - O. Sutton
- Department of Anesthesiology Perioperative and Pain Management, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - R. Yong
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
- Department of Anesthesiology Perioperative and Pain Management, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - R. Trumbower
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Hospital Cambridge, Cambridge, MA 02115, USA
| | - Y. Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (J.I.C.); (V.S.C.); (B.J.)
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.C.); (R.Y.); (R.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gorgey AS, Venigalla S, Rehman MU, George B, Rejc E, Gouda JJ. Interleaved configurations of percutaneous epidural stimulation enhanced overground stepping in a person with chronic paraplegia. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1284581. [PMID: 38144208 PMCID: PMC10740173 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1284581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Descending motor signals are disrupted after complete spinal cord injury (SCI) resulting in loss of standing and walking. We previously restored standing and trunk control in a person with a T3 complete SCI following implantation of percutaneous spinal cord epidural stimulation (SCES). We, hereby, present a step-by-step procedure on configuring the SCES leads to initiate rhythmic lower limb activation (rhythmic-SCES) resulting in independent overground stepping in parallel bars and using a standard walker. Initially, SCES was examined in supine lying at 2 Hz before initiating stepping-like activity in parallel bars using 20 or 30 Hz; however, single lead configuration (+2, -5) resulted in lower limb adduction and crossing of limbs, impairing the initiation of overground stepping. After 6 months, interleaving the original rhythmic-SCES with an additional configuration (-12, +15) on the opposite lead, resulted in a decrease of the extensive adduction tone and allowed the participant to initiate overground stepping up to 16 consecutive steps. The current paradigm suggests that interleaving two rhythmic-SCES configurations may improve the excitability of the spinal circuitry to better interpret the residual descending supraspinal signals with the ascending proprioceptive inputs, resulting in a stepping-like motor behavior after complete SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf S. Gorgey
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Siddharth Venigalla
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Muhammad Uzair Rehman
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders, Richmond VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Botros George
- ELAGI Center for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Giza, Egypt
| | - Enrico Rejc
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Jan J. Gouda
- Neurosurgery Department, Louran Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
- Department of Surgery, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|