The impact of co-morbidities on age-related differences in mortality after acute traumatic spinal cord injury

Concomitant traumatic brain injury as a determinant of survival, and neurological and functional outcomes after traumatic spinal cord injury: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Although concomitant traumatic brain injury (TBI) is not infrequently associated with spinal cord injury (SCI), there is relatively scarce information about the effects of concomitant TBI on outcomes after SCI.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of concomitant mild-to-moderate TBI on survival, and neurological and functional outcomes within the first year after acute traumatic SCI.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Acute spine trauma centers in the United States.

PARTICIPANTS

This study includes all individuals who were enrolled into the Third National Spinal Cord Injury Study (NASCIS-3). The study population was classified into SCI + TBI group and SCI-alone group. TBI was defined as a Glasgow Coma Scale score <15 on admission.

INTERVENTION

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Both groups were compared regarding their survival and neurological outcomes (ie, NASCIS motor, sensory and pain scores) and functional outcome (ie, Functional Independence Measure score) within the first year following SCI. Data analyses were adjusted for major potential confounders.

RESULTS

There were 413 individuals in the SCI-alone group and 86 individuals in the SCI + TBI group (17.2%). Both groups were comparable regarding gender distribution (p = .621). However, the SCI + TBI group was older (p < .001), had a higher proportion of complete (p = .006) and cervical SCI (p = .003), and had a higher blood alcohol level (p < .001) than the SCI-alone group. The SCI + TBI group did not significantly differ from the SCI-alone group regarding survival within the first year after SCI (p = .768). Among the survivors, concomitant mild-to-moderate TBI did not significantly affect neurological and functional outcomes at 1 year after SCI in the multiple regression analyses after adjusting for major potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that concomitant mild-to-moderate TBI did not have a significant impact on survival, neurological recovery, and functional outcomes at 1 year after SCI, even though there were some epidemiological differences between SCI-alone and SCI + TBI groups.

Quality of in-hospital care in traumatic spinal column and cord injuries (TSC/SCI) in I.R Iran

PURPOSE

This study aimed to implement the Quality of Care (QoC) Assessment Tool from the National Spinal Cord/Column Injury Registry of Iran (NSCIR-IR) to map the current state of in-hospital QoC of individuals with Traumatic Spinal Column and Cord Injuries (TSCCI).

METHODS

The QoC Assessment Tool, developed from a scoping review of the literature, was implemented in NSCIR-IR. We collected the required data from two primary sources. Questions regarding health system structures and care processes were completed by the registrar nurse reviewing the hospital records. Questions regarding patient outcomes were gathered through patient interviews.

RESULTS

We registered 2812 patients with TSCCI over six years from eight referral hospitals in NSCIR-IR. The median length of stay in the general hospital and intensive care unit was four and five days, respectively. During hospitalization 4.2% of patients developed pressure ulcers, 83.5% of patients reported satisfactory pain control and none had symptomatic urinary tract infections. 100%, 80%, and 90% of SCI registration centers had 24/7 access to CT scans, MRI scans, and operating rooms, respectively. Only 18.8% of patients who needed surgery underwent a surgical operation in the first 24 h after admission. In-hospital mortality rate for patients with SCI was 19.3%.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that the current in-hospital care of our patients with TSCCI is acceptable in terms of pain control, structure and length of stay and poor regarding in-hospital mortality rate and timeliness. We must continue to work on lowering rates of pressure sores, as well as delays in decompression surgery and fatalities.

Guidelines for neuroprognostication in adults with traumatic spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND

Traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) impacts patients and their families acutely and often for the long term. The ability of clinicians to share prognostic information about mortality and functional outcomes allows patients and their surrogates to engage in decision-making and plan for the future. These guidelines provide recommendations on the reliability of acute-phase clinical predictors to inform neuroprognostication and guide clinicians in counseling adult patients with tSCI or their surrogates.

METHODS

A narrative systematic review was completed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. Candidate predictors, including clinical variables and prediction models, were selected based on clinical relevance and presence of an appropriate body of evidence. The Population/Intervention/Comparator/Outcome/Timing/Setting question was framed as "When counseling patients or surrogates of critically ill patients with traumatic spinal cord injury, should < predictor, with time of assessment if appropriate > be considered a reliable predictor of < outcome, with time frame of assessment >?" Additional full-text screening criteria were used to exclude small and lower quality studies. Following construction of an evidence profile and summary of findings, recommendations were based on four Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation criteria: quality of evidence, balance of desirable and undesirable consequences, values and preferences, and resource use. Good practice recommendations addressed essential principles of neuroprognostication that could not be framed in the Population/Intervention/Comparator/Outcome/Timing/Setting format. Throughout the guideline development process, an individual living with tSCI provided perspective on patient-centered priorities.

RESULTS

Six candidate clinical variables and one prediction model were selected. Out of 11,132 articles screened, 369 met inclusion criteria for full-text review and 35 articles met eligibility criteria to guide recommendations. We recommend pathologic findings on magnetic resonance imaging, neurological level of injury, and severity of injury as moderately reliable predictors of American Spinal Cord Injury Impairment Scale improvement and the Dutch Clinical Prediction Rule as a moderately reliable prediction model of independent ambulation at 1 year after injury. No other reliable or moderately reliable predictors of mortality or functional outcome were identified. Good practice recommendations include considering the complete clinical condition as opposed to a single variable and communicating the challenges of likely functional deficits as well as potential for improvement and for long-term quality of life with SCI-related deficits to patients and surrogates.

CONCLUSIONS

These guidelines provide recommendations about the reliability of acute-phase predictors of mortality, functional outcome, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade conversion, and recovery of independent ambulation for consideration when counseling patients with tSCI or their surrogates and suggest broad principles of neuroprognostication in this context.

Racial and Ethnical Discrepancies and Similarities in the Epidemiology, Survival, and Neurological Outcomes After Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using Data from the NASCIS-1 Trial

Background

Little is known about the impact of race/ethnicity on the clinical and neurological outcomes after acute traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI).

Objectives

This study examined the influence of race/ethnicity on the individuals' survival and neurological recovery within the first year after tSCI.

Methods

The 306 cases enrolled in the First National Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study (NASCIS-1) were grouped as African American individuals (n = 84), non-Hispanic White individuals (n = 159), and other races/ethnicities that included Hispanic individuals (n = 60) and Asian individuals (n = 3). Outcome measures included survival and neurological recovery within the first year after tSCI. Data analyses were adjusted for major potential confounders.

Results

There were 39 females and 267 males with mean age of 31 years who mostly sustained cervical severe tSCI after motor vehicle accidents or falls. The three groups were comparable regarding sex distribution, level and severity of tSCI, level of consciousness at admission, and total received dose of methylprednisolone. African American individuals were significantly older than non-Hispanic White individuals (p = .0238). African American individuals and individuals of other races/ethnicities more often had a tSCI with open wound caused by missile and water-related accidents than non-Hispanic White individuals (p < .0001). Survival rates within the first year after tSCI were comparable among the three groups (p = .3191). Among the survivors, there were no significant differences among the three groups regarding motor and pinprick and light-touch sensory recovery (p > .0500).

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that, while there were few differences among the racial/ethnical groups regarding the epidemiology of tSCI, race/ethnicity did not influence survival rate or neurological recovery within the first year post-tSCI.

Progress Report on the Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Research Initiatives Based on Registered Clinical Studies From 2000 to 2022

TO CLAIM CME CREDITS

Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME.

CME OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this article, the reader should be able to: (1) Identify the most common trends and features of research studies on spinal cord rehabilitation, which were registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov Website between 2000 and 2022; (2) Discuss the main limitations of research on spinal cord rehabilitation, based on the protocols published on the ClinicalTrials.gov Website; and (3) Recognize important knowledge gaps in clinical studies on spinal cord rehabilitation that were registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov Website.

LEVEL

Advanced.

ACCREDITATION

The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this Journal-based CME activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s) ™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Sex-Related Discrepancies in the Access to Optimal Care and Outcomes After Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using Data From a Canadian Registry

OBJECTIVE

To compare males and females who were stratified into subgroups corresponding to premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal ages, regarding access to optimal care and their outcomes after traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Eighteen acute care centers and 13 rehabilitation facilities across Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

This study included 5571 individuals with tSCI at C1-L2 who were enrolled in the Rick Hansen Spinal Cord Injury Registry from July 2004 to September 2019 (N=5571). Females were compared with males in the younger (aged ≤40 years), middle-aged (ages 41-50), and older (aged >50 years) subgroups.

INTERVENTION

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Females were compared with males in each subgroup with regard to their demographic data, pre-existing comorbidities, injury characteristics, management choices, access to optimal care, and clinical, neurologic, and functional outcomes after tSCI.

RESULTS

In the younger subgroups, females (n=408) were significantly younger, had a greater proportion of aboriginals and transportation-related tSCIs, underwent surgical treatment more often, and had a greater sensory score change than males (n=1613). In the middle-aged subgroups, females (n=174) had a greater proportion of high-thoracic tSCIs than males (n=666). In the older subgroups, females (n=660) were significantly older, had more fall-related and less severe tSCIs, had a shorter stay at the rehabilitation center, had less spasticity, and were discharged home less often than males (n=2050).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest some sex-related differences in individuals' demographics and injury characteristics, but fewer discrepancies between females and males regarding their access to optimal care and outcomes after tSCI. Overall, future clinical trials could consider inclusion of males and females of all age groups to enhance recruitment and augment generalizability.

Differences in clinical characteristics of cervical spine injuries in older adults by external causes: a multicenter study of 1512 cases

Although traumatic cervical spine injuries in older adults are commonly caused by minor traumas, such as ground-level falls, their prognosis is often unfavorable. Studies examining the clinical characteristics of cervical spine injuries in older adults according to the external cause of injury are lacking. This study included 1512 patients of ≥ 65 years of age with traumatic cervical spine injuries registered in a Japanese nationwide multicenter database. The relationship between the external causes and clinical characteristics, as well as factors causing unfavorable outcomes at the ground-level falls, were retrospectively reviewed and examined. When fall-induced cervical spine injuries were categorized and compared based on fall height, the patients’ backgrounds and injury statuses differed significantly. Of note, patients injured from ground-level falls tended to have poorer pre-injury health conditions, such as medical comorbidities and frailty, compared with those who fell from higher heights. For ground-level falls, the mortality, walking independence, and home-discharge rates at 6 months post-injury were 9%, 67%, and 80%, respectively, with preexisting medical comorbidities and frailty associated with unfavorable outcomes, independent of age or severity of neurological impairment at the time of injury.

Trends in the presentation and management of traumatic spinal cord lesions above T6: 20-Year experience in a tertiary-level hospital in Spain

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the changes in demographic and lesion characteristics of persons with acute traumatic spinal cord injury (ATSCI) above T6 over a period of 20 years, and to evaluate their impact on ICU resources use, length of stay and mortality.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the University Hospital Complex of A Coruña, Spain.

PARTICIPANTS

The study included 241 persons between 1998 and 2017 with an ATSCI above T6. For the purposes of the analysis, the overall study period was divided into three subperiods.

RESULTS

Both the mean age of the people with ATSCI (49 vs. 51 vs. 57 years; P = 0.046) and the Charlson Comorbidity Index were higher during the last subperiod (mean: 1.9 ± 2.2; P &lt; 0.01). The most frequent cause of the injury was falls, whose percentage increased over the years. The most common classification in the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment scale was grade A. An increase in the score of the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE II) score was observed (median: 9 vs. 10 vs. 15; P &lt; 0.01). The length of stay in the ICU has decreased significantly over the years (30 ± 19 vs. 22 ± 14 vs. 19 ± 13 days). No significant differences were found between the rates of ICU or in-hospital mortality recorded over the three subperiods.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the progressive increase in the age, comorbidity, and APACHE II, the length of ICU stay decreased significantly, with no associated changes in the mortality rates.

Baseline predictors of in-hospital mortality after acute traumatic spinal cord injury: data from a level I trauma center

Comorbidity scores are important predictors of in-hospital mortality after traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI), but the impact of specific pre-existing diseases is unknown. This retrospective cohort study aims at identifying relevant comorbidities and explores the influence of end-of-life decisions. In-hospital mortality of all patients admitted to the study center after acute tSCI from 2011 to 2017 was assessed. A conditional inference tree analysis including baseline data, injury characteristics, and Charlson Comorbidity Index items was used to identify crucial predictors. End-of-life decisions were recorded. Three-hundred-twenty-one patients were consecutively enrolled. The median length of stay was 95.7 days (IQR 56.8-156.0). During inpatient care, 20 patients (6.2%) died. These patients were older (median: 79.0 (IQR 74.7-83.2) vs. 55.5 (IQR 41.4-72.3) years) and had a higher Charlson Comorbidity Index score (median: 4.0 (IQR 1.75-5.50) vs. 0.0 (IQR 0.00-1.00)) compared to survivors. Pre-existing kidney or liver disease were identified as relevant predictors of in-hospital mortality. End-of-life decisions were observed in 14 (70.0%) cases. The identified impairment of kidney and liver, important for drug metabolism and elimination, points to the need of careful decisions on pharmaceutical treatment regimens after tSCI. Appropriate reporting of end-of-life decisions is required for upcoming studies.

A prospective multi-center study comparing the complication profile of modest systemic hypothermia versus normothermia for acute cervical spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective multi-center trial.

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the complication profile associated with modest systemic hypothermia after acute cervical SCI in a prospective multi-center study.

SETTING

Five trauma centers in the United States.

METHODS

We analyzed data from a prospective, multi-center trial on the use of modest systemic hypothermia for acute cervical SCI. Patients with acute cervical SCI were assigned to receive modest systemic hypothermia (33 C) or standard of care medical treatment. Patients in the hypothermia group were cooled to 33 C and maintained at the target temperature for 48 h. Complication profile and the rate of complications within the first 6 weeks after injury were compared between the two groups. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine risk factors for complications after injury.

RESULTS

Fifty patients (hypothermia: 27, control: 23) were analyzed for this study. Median age was significantly lower in the hypothermia arm (39 vs 59 years, p = 0.02). Respiratory complications were the most common (hypothermia: 55.6% vs control: 52.2%, p = 0.81). The rate of deep vein thrombosis was not significantly different between the two groups (hypothermia: 14.8% vs control 17.4%, p = 0.71). The rate of complications was not statistically different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

In this prospective multi-center controlled trial, preliminary data show that modest systemic hypothermia was not associated with increased risk of complications within the first 6 weeks after acute cervical SCI.

TRIAL INFORMATION

The study is registered on clinicaltrials.gov NCT02991690. University of Miami IRB (Central IRB) approval No.: 20160758. Emory University IRB #IRB00093786.

Association of Mortality and Charlson Comorbidity Index in Surgical Spinal Trauma Patients at a Level I Academic Center

OBJECTIVES

The Charlson Comorbidity Index score (CCI) records the presence of comorbidities with various weights for a total score to estimate mortality within 1 year of hospital admission. Our study sought to assess the association of CCI with mortality rates of patients undergoing surgical intervention.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study.

METHODS

Retrospective study of patients with surgical spinal trauma at a large academic level I trauma tertiary center from 2015 to 2018. Information collected included age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, body mass index, Charlson comorbidities, injury severity score, the presence of spinal cord injury, and mortality. Mortality was measured at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were completed. The results were significant at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

The highest proportion of 1-year mortality was in the patients with cervical (11.3%) and thoracolumbar injuries (7.4%) (P = 0.002). Patients with low CCI had low 1-year mortality (1.7%). Patients with high CCI had high 1-year mortality (13.8%) (P < 0.001). A significant association existed between CCI and mortality at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year (P < 0.001). Mortality was higher in patients with spinal cord injury (14/108; 13%) than in those without (11/232; 5%) (P = 0.021). No association existed between ISS and mortality (P = 0.26).

DISCUSSION

The CCI was associated with a higher proportion of deaths at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year. This association may help predict this unfortunate complication and guide the surgical team in formulating treatment plans and counseling patients and families regarding mortality associated with these injuries and the risks of surgical intervention.

Influence of age on acute traumatic spinal cord injury in Saint Petersburg, Russia

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate influence of age after traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI).

SETTING

13 specialized hospitals with neurosurgical departments of Saint Petersburg, Russia.

METHODS

Charts of all patients admitted with TSCI to the city hospitals 2012-2016. Demographic and clinical characteristics, surgical interventions, complications, mortality rate, and hospital stays were recorded.

RESULTS

311 patients with TSCI were included. TSCI was more common in younger age. Mean age (SD) was 42.4 (16.8) years. Patients were divided into four age groups: 18-29, 30-44, 45-59 and ≥60 years. The group ≥60 years had the lowest percentage of concomitant traumatic brain injury (TBI), 25%, versus 43% in TSCI < 60 years, p < 0.05. Low falls were the most frequent cause in patients aged 60 years and older, and led to less severe neurological deficits (p < 0.05). Complications were most frequent in motor complete TSCI (AIS A and AIS B) and in persons with combined TSCI and TBI at older age. Total complication rate was 67% at the age of ≥60 years versus 38% <60 years in TSCI with TBI (p < 0.05). Respiratory complications occurred in 67% ≥45 years versus 45% <45 years, p < 0.05. In-hospital mortality rate after TSCI was higher in the oldest age group.

CONCLUSIONS

Respiratory complications are common and the in-hospital mortality is higher among elderly people. Older patients with TSCI and TBI are at high risk for complications.

A Scoping Review of Registered Clinical Studies on Management of Individuals With Acute Spinal Cord Injury (2000-2020): Trends and Characteristics of the Research Initiatives

ABSTRACT

This scoping review examined the current trends and characteristics of the clinical research initiatives on the management of acute spinal cord injury. This review included all clinical studies on the acute treatment of spinal cord injury that were registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov website from February 2000 to December 2020. The search strategy combined the terms "acute spinal cord injury" and "treatment." There has been a gradual increase in the number of registered clinical studies on acute treatment of spinal cord injury over the past two decades. Of the 116 studies, there were 103 interventional studies, 12 observational studies, and 1 registry. While 115 clinical studies recruited male and female participants, most of the registered clinical studies included only adults with an upper age limit after spinal cord injury. Most of the registered clinical studies were interventional studies led by single institutions in North America (n = 70), Europe (n = 29), and Asia (n = 15). Most of the research initiatives were interventional studies on new therapies for management of individuals with spinal cord injury (n = 91). In conclusion, the results of this scoping review suggest that although there has been an increase in the amount and diversity of the research initiatives on treatment of acute spinal cord injury over the past two decades, their generalizability remains relatively limited.

Monitoring Spinal Cord Tissue Oxygen in Patients With Acute, Severe Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries

Objectives

To determine the feasibility of monitoring tissue oxygen tension from the injury site (psctO2) in patients with acute, severe traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Design

We inserted at the injury site a pressure probe, a microdialysis catheter, and an oxygen electrode to monitor for up to a week intraspinal pressure (ISP), spinal cord perfusion pressure (SCPP), tissue glucose, lactate/pyruvate ratio (LPR), and psctO2. We analyzed 2,213 hours of such data. Follow-up was 6-28 months postinjury.

Setting

Single-center neurosurgical and neurocritical care units.

Subjects

Twenty-six patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries, American spinal injury association Impairment Scale A-C. Probes were inserted within 72 hours of injury.

Interventions

Insertion of subarachnoid oxygen electrode (Licox; Integra LifeSciences, Sophia-Antipolis, France), pressure probe, and microdialysis catheter.

Measurements and Main Results

psctO2 was significantly influenced by ISP (psctO2 26.7 +/- 0.3 mm Hg at ISP > 10 mmHg vs psctO2 22.7 +/- 0.8 mm Hg at ISP <= 10 mm Hg), SCPP (psctO2 26.8 +/- 0.3 mm Hg at SCPP < 90 mm Hg vs psctO2 32.1 +/- 0.7 mm Hg at SCPP >= 90 mm Hg), tissue glucose (psctO2 26.8 +/- 0.4 mm Hg at glucose < 6 mM vs 32.9 +/- 0.5 mm Hg at glucose >= 6 mM), tissue LPR (psctO2 25.3 +/- 0.4 mm Hg at LPR > 30 vs psctO2 31.3 +/- 0.3 mm Hg at LPR <= 30), and fever (psctO2 28.8 +/- 0.5 mm Hg at cord temperature 37-38[degrees]C vs psctO2 28.7 +/- 0.8 mm Hg at cord temperature >= 39[degrees]C). Tissue hypoxia also occurred independent of these factors. Increasing the FIO2 by 0.48 increases psctO2 by 71.8% above baseline within 8.4 minutes. In patients with motor-incomplete injuries, fluctuations in psctO2 correlated with fluctuations in limb motor score. The injured cord spent 11% (39%) hours at psctO2 less than 5 mm Hg (< 20 mm Hg) in patients with motor-complete outcomes, compared with 1% (30%) hours at psctO2 less than 5 mm Hg (< 20 mm Hg) in patients with motor-incomplete outcomes. Complications were cerebrospinal fluid leak (5/26) and wound infection (1/26).

Conclusions

This study lays the foundation for measuring and altering spinal cord oxygen at the injury site. Future studies are required to investigate whether this is an effective new therapy.

Effects of age on survival and neurological recovery of individuals following acute traumatic spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of older age at the time of injury on the individuals' survival and neurological recovery within the first year after acute traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI).

SETTING

United States.

METHODS

This study included all participants enrolled into the First National Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study (NASCIS-1). Outcome measures included survival and neurological recovery (as assessed using the NASCIS motor and sensory scores) within the first year after tSCI. Data analyses of neurological recovery were adjusted for major potential confounders.

RESULTS

The study included 39 females and 267 males with overall mean age of 31 years who mostly sustained cervical severe tSCI after motor vehicle accidents or falls. Survival rates among older individuals are significantly lower than among younger individuals within the first year following tSCI (p < 0.0001). Among who survived the first year of tSCI, there were no statistically significant difference between older survivors and younger survivors regarding motor and sensory recovery in the multiple regression analyses adjusted for major potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this retrospective study suggest that older age at the injury onset is associated with lower survival rate within the first year following tSCI. However, older individuals have similar potential to recover from their initial neurological impairment to younger individuals after tSCI. The results of this study combined to the recent literature underline the need for multidisciplinary team approach to the management of the elderly with acute SCI is essential to maximize their recovery.

Health inequalities and income for people with spinal cord injury. A comparison between and within countries

Income and health are related in a bi-directional manner, whereby level of income affects health and vice versa. People in poorer households tend to experience worse health status and higher mortality rates than people in wealthier households, and, at the same time, having poor health could restrict workability leading to less income. This gap exists in almost every country, and it is more pronounced in more unequal countries and in vulnerable populations, such as people experiencing disability. The goal of this paper is to estimate the health-income gap in people with a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), which is a chronic health condition often associated with multiple comorbidities that leads to disability. As data on mortality is inexistent, to estimate the health-income gap for persons with SCI, this paper uses two health outcomes: the number of years a person has lived with the injury, and a comorbidity index. Data was obtained from the International Spinal Cord Injury survey (InSCI), which is the first worldwide survey on community-dwelling persons with SCI. To compare across countries, the health outcomes were adjusted through hierarchical models, accounting for country fixed-effects, individual characteristics such as age and gender, and injury characteristics (cause, type and degree). Our results suggest that for the years living with SCI, the gap varies from 1 to 6 years between the lowest and the highest income groups. The main driver of such a difference is the cause of injury, where injuries caused by work accidents showed the biggest gap. Similarly, for the comorbidity index, persons with SCI in poorer deciles reported significantly more comorbidities, forty times more, than people in richer deciles.

Effects on Outcomes of Hyperglycemia in the Hyperacute Stage after Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury

Hyperglycemia has adverse effects on neuronal recovery after brain injury, but its effects after spinal cord injury (SCI) are understudied. This retrospective cohort study examined the potential effects on outcomes of hyperglycemia in the hyperacute stage after acute traumatic SCI. This study included all individuals enrolled in the National Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study 3 (NASCIS-3). Glycemic levels at 24 h, at 48 h, and at day 7 after acute SCI were examined as potential determinants of survival, neurological outcomes (using NASCIS motor, sensory, and pain scores), and functional outcome (using the Functional Independence Measure [FIM]) within the first year post-SCI. Hyperglycemia was defined using two thresholds (140 mg/dL and 180 mg/dL). Study subjects were 76 females and 423 males with an overall mean age of 36 years who sustained mostly cervical SCI due to motor vehicle accidents or falls. Hyperglycemia diagnosed at day 7 post-injury was associated with significantly greater mortality rates post-SCI. Among the survivors, hyperglycemia during the hyperacute stage was not significantly correlated with neurological recovery post-SCI. Hyperglycemia persistent until day 7 was significantly correlated with lower functional scores post-SCI. These results suggest that hyperglycemia at day 7 is correlated with greater mortality rates within the first year post-SCI. Although hyperglycemia during the hyperacute stage was not associated with neurological recovery, hyperglycemia at day 7 may adversely affect functional recovery within the first year post-SCI. Future investigations are needed to determine the optimal glycemic target in the management of patients with SCI.

Age as a determinant of inflammatory response and survival of glia and axons after human traumatic spinal cord injury

Despite the shift in the demographics of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) with increased proportion of injuries in the elderly, little is known on the potential effects of old age on the pathobiology of SCI. Since there is an assumption that age adversely affects neural response to SCI, this study examines the clinically relevant question on whether age is a key determinant of inflammatory response, oligodendroglial apoptosis and axonal survival after traumatic SCI. This unique study includes post-mortem spinal cord tissue from 64 cases of SCI (at cervical or high-thoracic levels) and 38 control cases without CNS injury. Each group was subdivided into subgroups of younger and elderly individuals (65 years of age or older at the SCI onset). The results of this study indicate that age at the SCI onset does not adversely affect the cellular inflammatory response to, oligodendroglial apoptosis and axonal survival after SCI. These results support the conclusion that elderly individuals have similar neurobiological responses to SCI as younger people and, hence, treatment decisions should be based on an assessment of the individual patient and not an arbitrary assumption that "advanced age" should exclude patients with an acute SCI from access to advanced care and translational therapies.

1-Year Mortality and Surgery Incidence in Older US Adults with Cervical Spine Fracture

BACKGROUND

Traumatic cervical spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can be lethal and are especially dangerous for older adults. Falls from standing and risk factors for a cervical fracture and spinal cord injury increase with age. This study estimates the 1-year mortality for patients with a cervical fracture and resultant SCI and compares the mortality rate with that from an isolated cervical fracture.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of U.S. Medicare patients older than 65 years of age. International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 codes were used to identify patients with a cervical fracture without SCI and patients with a cervical fracture with SCI between 2007 and 2014. Our primary outcome was 1-year mortality cumulative incidence rate; our secondary outcome was the cumulative incidence rate of surgical intervention. Propensity weighted analysis was performed to balance covariates between the groups.

RESULTS

The SCI cohort had a 1-year mortality of 36.5%, compared with 31.1% in patients with an isolated cervical fracture (risk difference 5.4% (2.9%-7.9%)). Patients with an SCI were also more likely to undergo surgical intervention compared with those without a SCI (23.1% and 10.3%, respectively; risk difference 12.8% (10.8%-14.9%)).

CONCLUSIONS

Using well-adjusted population-level data in older adults, this study estimates the 1-year mortality after SCI in older adults to be 36.5%. The mortality after a cervical fracture with SCI was 5 percentage points higher than in patients without SCI, and this difference is smaller than one might expect, likely representing the frailty of this population and unmeasured covariates.

Value of aggressive surgical and intensive care unit in elderly patients with traumatic spinal cord injury

OBJECTIVEThe elderly are a growing subpopulation within traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. Studies have reported high morbidity and mortality rates in elderly patients who undergo surgery for SCI. In this study, the authors compare the perioperative outcomes of surgically managed elderly SCI patients with those of a younger cohort and those reported in the literature.METHODSData on a consecutive series of adult traumatic SCI patients surgically managed at a single institution in the period from 2007 to 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. The cohort was divided into two groups based on age: younger than 70 years and 70 years or older. Assessed outcomes included complications, in-hospital mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospital length of stay (LOS), disposition, and neurological status.RESULTSA total of 106 patients were included in the study: 83 young and 23 elderly. The two groups were similar in terms of imaging features (cord hemorrhage and fracture), operative technique, and American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) grade. The elderly had a significantly higher proportion of cervical SCIs (95.7% vs 71.1%, p = 0.047). There were no significant differences between the young and the elderly in terms of the ICU stay (13.1 vs 13.3 days, respectively, p = 0.948) and hospital LOS (23.3 vs 21.7 days, p = 0.793). Elderly patients experienced significantly higher complication (73.9% vs 43.4%, p = 0.010) and mortality (13.0% vs 1.2%, p = 0.008) rates; in other words, the elderly patients had 1.7 times and 10.8 times the rate of complications and mortality, respectively, than the younger patients. No elderly patients were discharged home (0.0% vs 18.1%, p = 0.029). Discharge AIS grade and AIS grade change were similar between the groups.CONCLUSIONSElderly patients had higher complication and mortality rates than those in younger patients and were less likely to be discharged home. However, it does seem that mortality rates have improved compared to those in prior historical reports.

Is there any gender or age-related discrepancy in the waiting time for each step in the surgical management of acute traumatic cervical spinal cord injury?

Context/Objective: Prior studies indicate that patient's gender and age can influence treatment choices during spine disease management. This study examines whether individual's gender and age at injury onset influence the waiting time for each step in the surgical management of patients with acute traumatic cervical spinal cord injury (atcSCI). Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Quaternary spine trauma center. Participants: This study included consecutive individuals with atcSCI admitted from August/2002 to October/2008 who were enrolled in the Surgical Trial in Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study (STASCIS). Interventions: Spinal cord decompression. Outcome Measures: Data on the periods of time for each step in the surgical management were analyzed to explore the potential effects of gender and age at injury onset. Results: There were 64 individuals with atcSCI (17 women, 47 men; age range: 18-78 years; mean age: 50.5 ± 2.1 years). Older age was associated with longer stay in the acute spine center, but this association was cofounded by major pre-existing medical co-morbidities. Age did not significantly affect the waiting time for each step in the surgical management of these individuals with atcSCI. Women underwent surgical assessment earlier than men. Gender did not influence other key steps in the surgical management. Conclusion: The study results suggest that older age at injury onset was associated with longer stay in the acute spine care center, and women had a shorter waiting time for surgical assessment than men. Nevertheless, no other age or gender bias was identified in the waiting times for the steps in the management of atcSCI.

Sex-related discrepancies in the epidemiology, injury characteristics and outcomes after acute spine trauma: A retrospective cohort study

Context/Objective: The potential effects of sex on injury severity and outcomes after acute spine trauma (AST) have been reported in pre-clinical and clinical studies, even though the data are conflicting. This study compared females and males regarding the epidemiology, injury characteristics, and clinical outcomes of AST. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Acute spine care quaternary center. Participants: All consecutive cases of AST admitted from January/1996 to December/2007 were included. Interventions: None. Outcome Measures: The potential effects of sex on the epidemiology, injury characteristics, and clinical outcomes of AST were studied. Results: There were 504 individuals with AST (161 females, 343 males; mean age of 49.44 ± 0.92 years). Sex was not associated with age or pre-existing co-morbidities as assessed using the Charlson Co-morbidity Index, however, females had a greater number of International Classifications of Diseases (ICD) codes at admission and higher Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS) than males. Over the 12-year period, the male-to-female ratio has not significantly changed. Although there were significant sex-related discrepancies regarding injury etiology, level and severity of AST, males and females had similar lengths of stay in the acute spine center, in-hospital survival post-AST, and need for mechanical ventilation and tracheostomy. Conclusion: This study suggests that females with AST present with a greater number of pre-existing co-morbidities, a higher frequency of thoraco-lumbar trauma, less severe neurological impairment and a greater proportion of MVA-related injuries. However, females and males have a similar length of stay in the acute spine center, and comparable in-hospital survival, need for mechanical ventilation, and tracheostomy after AST.

Time-related changes in quality of life in persons with lower limb amputation or spinal cord injury: protocol for a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Experiencing a lower limb amputation (LLA) or spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-changing event, affecting physical and systemic function as well as having psychological and social impacts. However, the severity of the physical impairment and/or motor disability demonstrates a poor relationship with patient-reported quality of life, suggesting that other factors determine such outcomes. As such, holistic health-related quality of life (QoL) assessment is an important tool to monitor long-term outcomes. While there are some studies that have assessed the influence of variables such as age at time of injury occurrence and time since injury on changes in QoL, there are no systematic reviews which synthesise this evidence.

METHODS/DESIGN

All follow-up study designs will be included, where data from multiple time points are presented. Searches will target both SCI and LLA populations where a validated measure of QoL has been used: Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36/12 or the World Health Organization Quality of Life instruments 100 and BREF. Studies must include adult participants (≥ 18 years at time of injury) and detail time since injury event and patient age. The primary objective is to establish the effects of participant age and time since injury on QoL scores. Secondary objectives include determining between-group effects (i.e. LLA vs. SCI). We will search PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases, supplemented by hand-searching references within existing review articles and experimental studies. Reviewer pairs will conduct screening and quality assessment of included papers. Results will be stratified by impairment, QoL tool, age/time since injury and additional variables such as sex, race, comorbidity or disease aetiology, as appropriate. If sufficient high-quality data exist, a meta-analysis will be conducted.

DISCUSSION

The results of this systematic review will summarise evidence of how QoL changes across the life course, relative to both patient age and time since injury, for both LLA and SCI populations. By enabling a direct comparison of different chronic conditions, disability-specific differences in QoL changes over the life course can be identified.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42018096633 .

Prescription drug claims following a traumatic spinal cord injury for older adults: a retrospective population-based study in Ontario, Canada

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives

The objectives for this study were to examine the prevalence of polypharmacy for people with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) following injury and to determine risk factors.

Setting

Ontario, Canada

Methods

We used provincial-level administrative health services data of publicly funded healthcare encounters housed at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario. We examined prescription medications dispensed over a 1 year period post injury for persons 66+ years with an index traumatic SCI between 2004 and 2014. Polypharmacy was defined as being on 10 or more drug classes. Descriptive and analytical statistics were conducted. Relative risks and 95% confidence limits for factors related to polypharmacy were calculated using a robust Poisson multivariate regression model.

Results

We identified 418 cases of persons with traumatic SCI during the observation window. A total of 233 patients (56%) were taking at least 10 drug classes in the year following discharge from care for traumatic SCI. The mean number of drug classes taken post injury was 11 (SD = 6). Continuity of care was significantly associated with polypharmacy, with a higher continuity of care (having at least 75% of visits with the same doctor) reducing the risk of polypharmacy. The most common drugs prescribed were laxatives, opioids and cardiovascular-related drugs.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that polypharmacy is extensive among older adults with traumatic SCI. Persons with better continuity of care are less likely to have polypharmacy compared to those with less continuity.

Sponsorship

This project was funded by a Connaught New Investigator Award (University of Toronto), and the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation Psychosocial Research Pilot Grant (Grant #441259).

Health outcomes and costs of acute traumatic spinal injury in New South Wales, Australia

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Traumatic spinal injuries are often associated with both long-term disability, higher frequency of hospital readmissions, and high medical costs for individuals of all ages. Age differences in terms of injury profile and health outcomes among those who sustain a spinal cord injury have been identified. However, factors that may influence health outcomes among those with a spinal injury have not been extensively examined at a population level.

PURPOSE

The present study aims to describe the characteristics of traumatic spinal injury, identify factors predictive of mortality, and estimate the cost of hospital treatment for younger and older people.

STUDY DESIGN/SETTING

This is a population-based retrospective epidemiological study using linked hospitalization and mortality records during January 1, 2010 to June 30, 2014 in New South Wales, Australia.

PATIENT SAMPLE

The present study included 13,429 hospitalizations.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Mortality within 30 and 90 days of hospitalization, hospital length of stay (LOS), and hospitalization costs were determined.

METHODS

Hospitalizations with a principal diagnosis of spinal cord injury or spinal fractures were used to identify traumatic spinal injuries. Age-standardized incidence rates were calculated and negative binomial regression was used to examine statistical significant changes over time. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to examine the effect of risk factors on survival at 90 days.

RESULTS

There were 13,429 hospitalizations, with 52.4% of individuals aged ≥65 years. The hospitalization rates for individuals aged ≤64 and ≥65 years were both estimated to significantly increase per year by 3.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.97-5.79, p<.006) and 3.3% (95% CI 1.02-5.71, p=.005), respectively. For individuals aged ≥65 years, there were a higher proportion of women injured, comorbid conditions, injuries after a fall in the home or aged care facility, a longer hospital LOS, unplanned hospital admissions, and deaths than individual aged ≤64 years. The average cost per index hospitalization was AUD$23,808 for individuals aged ≤64 years and AUD$31,187 for individuals aged ≥65 years with a total estimated cost of AUD$371 million. Mortality risk at 90 days was increased for individuals who had one or more comorbidities, a higher injury severity score, and if their injury occurred in the home or an aged care facility.

CONCLUSIONS

Spinal injury represents a substantial cost and results in debilitating injuries, particularly for older individuals. Spinal injury prevention efforts for older people should focus on the implementation of fall injury prevention, whereas for younger individuals, prevention measures should target road safety.

Mortality Rate and Predicting Factors of Traumatic Thoracolumbar Spinal Cord Injury; A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective

To estimate the summation of mortality rate and the contributing factors in patients with traumatic thoracolumbar spinal cord injuries (TLSCI).

Methods

A systematic search of observational studies that evaluated the mortality associated with TLSCI in MEDLINE and EMBASE was conducted. The study quality was evaluated using a modified quality assessment tool previously designed for observational studies.

Results

Twenty-four observational studies involving 11,205 patients were included, published between January 1, 1997, and February 6, 2016. Ten studies were of high quality, thirteen were of moderate quality, and one study was of low quality. Seventeen reports described risk factors for mortality and eleven of these studies used a multiple regression models to adjust for confounders. The reported mortality rate ranged from 0 to 37.7% overall and between 0 and 10.4% in-hospital. The sum of mortality for in-hospital, 6-month, and 12-month were 5.2%, 26.12%, 4.3%, respectively. The mortality at 7.7 years follow-up was 10.07% and for 14 years follow-up reports ranged from 13.47% to 21.46%. Associated data such as age at injury, male to female ratio, pre-existing comorbidities, concomitant injuries, duration of follow-up, and cause of death have been underreported in studies investigating the mortality rate after TLSCI.

Conclusion

There is no study was found that accurately assessed mortality in the thoracolumbar spine, while there is general agreement that traumatic thoracolumbar spinal cord injuries are important.

Type and Timing of Rehabilitation Following Acute and Subacute Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature to address the following clinical questions: In adult patients with acute and subacute complete or incomplete traumatic SCI, (1) does the time interval between injury and commencing rehabilitation affect outcome?; (2) what is the comparative effectiveness of different rehabilitation strategies, including different intensities and durations of treatment?; (3) are there patient or injury characteristics that affect the efficacy of rehabilitation?; and (4) what is the cost-effectiveness of various rehabilitation strategies?

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted for literature published through March 31, 2015 that evaluated rehabilitation strategies in adults with acute or subacute traumatic SCI at any level. Studies were critically appraised individually and the overall strength of evidence was evaluated using methods proposed by the GRADE (Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation) working group.

RESULTS

The search strategy yielded 384 articles, 19 of which met our inclusion criteria. Based on our results, there was no difference between body weight-supported treadmill training and conventional rehabilitation with respect to improvements in Functional Independence Measure (FIM) Locomotor score, Lower Extremity Motor Scores, the distance walked in 6 minutes or gait velocity over 15.2 m. Functional electrical therapy resulted in slightly better FIM Motor, FIM Self-Care, and Spinal Cord Independence Measure Self-Care subscores compared with conventional occupational therapy. Comparisons using the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute Hand Function Test demonstrated no differences between groups in 7 of 9 domains. There were no clinically important differences in Maximal Lean Test, Maximal Sidewards Reach Test, T-shirt Test, or the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure between unsupported sitting training and standard in-patient rehabilitation.

CONCLUSION

The current evidence base for rehabilitation following acute and subacute spinal cord injury is limited. Methodological challenges have contributed to this and further research is still needed.

Epidemiology of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Among Persons Older Than 21 Years: A Population-Based Study in South Carolina, 1998-2012

BACKGROUND

A gap exists in the current knowledge regarding the epidemiology of traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) in a statewide population.

OBJECTIVE

To describe population-based epidemiology and trend of TSCI in persons 22 years and older in South Carolina over a 15-year period from 1998 through 2012.

METHODS

Data on patients with TSCI were obtained from ongoing statewide TSCI surveillance and follow-up registry. Deaths were ascertained by linking surveillance files and the multiple cause-of-death dataset. Descriptive analyses were completed, and incidence and mortality rates were calculated based on the civilian adult population of the state.

RESULTS

Over the 15 years, 3,365 persons with incident TSCI were discharged alive from acute care hospitalization, of whom 555 died during the period of observation. Age-standardized cumulative mortality rate was 14 per million, and the average incidence rate was estimated at 70.8 per million population per year. Age-standardized incidence rate of TSCI increased significantly from 66.9 in 1998 to 111.7 per million in 2012. Standardized incidence rates were significantly higher among non-Whites and males. Motor vehicle crashes and falls were the leading causes, accounting for nearly 70% of TSCI.

CONCLUSIONS

Standardized incidence and mortality rates of TSCI in South Carolina are higher than reported rates for the US population. Motor vehicle crashes and falls are the leading causes of TSCI. There was a significant increase in the overall trend of the incidence rates over the 15 years. A well-coordinated preventive strategy is needed to reduce incidence and improve survival of persons with TSCI.

Nucleotides in neuroregeneration and neuroprotection

Brain injury generates the release of a multitude of factors including extracellular nucleotides, which exhibit bi-functional properties and contribute to both detrimental actions in the acute phase and also protective and reparative actions in the later recovery phase to allow neuroregeneration. A promising strategy toward restoration of neuronal function is based on activation of endogenous adult neural stem/progenitor cells. The implication of purinergic signaling in stem cell biology, including regulation of proliferation, differentiation, and cell death has become evident in the last decade. In this regard, current strategies of acute transplantation of ependymal stem/progenitor cells after spinal cord injury restore altered expression of P2X4 and P2X7 receptors and improve functional locomotor recovery. The expression of both receptors is transcriptionally regulated by Sp1 factor, which plays a key role in the startup of the transcription machinery to induce regeneration-associated genes expression. Finally, general signaling pathways triggered by nucleotide receptors in neuronal populations converge on several intracellular kinases, such as PI3K/Akt, GSK3 and ERK1,2, as well as the Nrf-2/heme oxigenase-1 axis, which specifically link them to neuroprotection. In this regard, regulation of dual specificity protein phosphatases can become novel mechanism of actions for nucleotide receptors that associate them to cell homeostasis regulation. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Purines in Neurodegeneration and Neuroregeneration'.

Mortality and longevity after a spinal cord injury: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Mortality and longevity studies of spinal cord injury (SCI) are essential for informing healthcare systems and policies. This review evaluates the current evidence among people with SCIs worldwide in relation to the WHO region and country income level; demographic and lesion characteristics; and in comparison with the general population.

METHODS

A systematic review of relevant databases for original studies. Pooled estimates were derived using random effects meta-analysis, restricted to traumatic SCI.

RESULTS

Seventy-four studies were included. In-hospital mortality varied, with pooled estimates of 24.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 14.1-38.0), 7.6% (95% CI 6.3-9.0), 7.0% (95% CI 1.5-27.4), and 2.1% (95% CI 0.9-5.0) in the WHO regions of Africa, the Americas, Europe and Western Pacific. The combined estimate for low- and middle-income countries was nearly three times higher than for high-income countries. Pooled estimates of first-year survival were 86.5% (95% CI 75.3-93.1), 95.6% (95% CI 81.0-99.1), and 94.0% (95% CI 93.3-94.6) in the Americas, Europe and Western Pacific. Pooled estimates of standardized mortality ratios in tetraplegics were 2.53 (2.00-3.21) and 2.07 (1.47-2.92) in paraplegics.

CONCLUSION

This study found substantial variation in mortality and longevity within the SCI population, compared to the general population, and between WHO regions and country income level. Improved standardization and quality of reporting is needed to improve inferences regarding the extent to which mortality outcomes following an SCI are related to healthcare systems, services and policies.

Patient demographics, insurance status, race, and ethnicity as predictors of morbidity and mortality after spine trauma: a study using the National Trauma Data Bank

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

Predictors of complications and mortality after spine trauma are underexplored. At present, no study exists capable of predicting the impact of demographic factors, injury-specific predictors, race, ethnicity, and insurance status on morbidity and mortality after spine trauma.

PURPOSE

This study endeavored to describe the impact of patient demographics, comorbidities, injury-specific factors, race/ethnicity, and insurance status on outcomes after spinal trauma using the National Sample Program (NSP) of the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB).

STUDY DESIGN

The weighted sample of 75,351 incidents of spine trauma in the NTDB was used to develop a predictive model for important factors associated with mortality, postinjury complications, length of hospital stay, intensive care unit (ICU) days, and time on a ventilator.

PATIENT SAMPLE

A weighted sample of 75,351 incidents of spine trauma as contained in the NTDB.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Mortality, postinjury complications, length of hospital stay, ICU days, and time on a ventilator as reported in the NTDB.

METHODS

The 2008 NSP of the NTDB was queried to identify patients sustaining spine trauma. Patient demographics, race/ethnicity, insurance status, comorbidities, injury-specific factors, and outcomes were recorded, and a national estimate model was derived. Unadjusted differences in baseline characteristics between racial/ethnic groups and insurance status were evaluated using the t test for continuous variables and Wald chi-square analysis for categorical variables with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons. Weighted logistic regression was performed for categorical variables (mortality and risk of one or more complications), and weighted multiple linear regression analysis was used for continuous variables (length of hospital stay, ICU days, and ventilator time). Initial determinations were checked against a sensitivity analysis using imputed data.

RESULTS

The weighted sample contained 75,351 incidents of spine trauma. The average age was 45.8 years. Sixty-four percent of the population was male, 9% was black/African American, 38% possessed private/commercial insurance, and 12.5% lacked insurance. The mortality rate was 6% and 16% sustained complications. Increased age, male gender, Injury Severity Score (ISS), and blood pressure at presentation were significant predictors of mortality, whereas age, male gender, other mechanism of injury, ISS, and blood pressure at presentation influenced the risk of one or more complications. Nonwhite and black/African American race increased risk of mortality, and lack of insurance increased mortality and decreased the number of hospital days, ICU days, and ventilator time.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to postulate predictors of morbidity and mortality after spinal trauma in a national model. Race/ethnicity and insurance status appear to be associated with greater risk of mortality after spine trauma.

The effects of the timing of spinal surgery after traumatic spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract The debate over the effects of the timing of surgical spinal decompression after traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) has remained unresolved for over a century. The aim of the current study was to perform a systematic review and quality-adjusted meta-analysis of studies evaluating the effects of the timing of spinal surgery after tSCI. Studies were searched for through the MEDLINE(®) database (1966 to August 2012) and a 15-item, tailored scoring system was used for assessing the included studies' susceptibility to bias. Random effects and quality effects meta-analyses were performed. Models were tested for robustness using one way and criterion-based sensitivity analysis and funnel plots. Results are presented as weighted mean differences (WMDs) and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 18 studies were analyzed. Heterogeneity was evident among the studies included. Quality effects models showed that - when compared with "late" surgery - "early" spinal surgery was significantly associated with a higher total motor score improvement (WMD: 5.94 points, 95% CI:0.74,11.15) in seven studies, neurological improvement rate (OR: 2.23, 95% CI:1.35,3.67) in six studies, and shorter length of hospital stay (WMD: -9.98 days, 95% CI:-13.10,-6.85) in six studies. However, one way and criterion-based sensitivity analyses demonstrated a profound lack of robustness among pooled estimates. Funnel plots showed significant proof of publication bias. In conclusion, despite the fact that "early" spinal surgery was significantly associated with improved neurological and length of stay outcomes, the evidence supporting "early" spinal surgery after tSCI lacks robustness as a result of different sources of heterogeneity within and between original studies. Where the conduct of a surgical, randomized controlled trial seems to be an unfeasible undertaking in acute tSCI, methodological safeguards require the utmost attention in future cohort studies. (Prospero registration number: PROSPERO CRD42012003182. See also http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/NIHR_PROSPERO/ ).

Association of various comorbidity measures with spinal cord injury rehabilitation outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the amount of variation in short- and medium-term spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation outcomes explained by various comorbidity measures, over and above patient preinjury characteristics and neurologic and functional status.

DESIGN

Prospective observational cohort study of traumatic SCI patients receiving inpatient rehabilitation and followed up at 1 year postinjury.

SETTING

Inpatient rehabilitation and community follow-up at 6 SCI treatment centers.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants (N=1376) included 1032 patients randomly selected for model development and 344 patients selected for cross-validation.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Rehabilitation length of stay (LOS), return to acute care during rehabilitation, discharge motor FIM, discharge home, rehospitalization after discharge, 1-year return to work/school and 1-year depression symptomatology, motor FIM, and residence. Comorbidity measures used were case-mix groups tier weights, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and the Comprehensive Severity Index (CSI).

RESULTS

Multivariable regression analyses, controlling for patient preinjury and injury characteristics, found that the maximum Comprehensive Severity Index (MCSI) was a significant and stronger predictor of LOS, return to acute care during rehabilitation, and 1-year motor FIM compared with the case-mix groups tier weight or the CCI. The admission CSI was a strong predictor of LOS. For rehospitalization after discharge, only the case-mix groups tier weight was significant. No comorbidity measure was significant beyond patient preinjury and injury characteristics for discharge home, discharge motor FIM, living at home, depression symptomatology, major depressive syndrome, and return to work/school.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient preinjury and injury characteristics are sufficient to predict most SCI outcomes. For rehabilitation LOS and return to acute care during rehabilitation, one achieves substantially better explanation when taking clinical comorbidity based on the MCSI into account.

Systematic review of comorbidity indices for administrative data

BACKGROUND

Adjustment for comorbidities is common in performance benchmarking and risk prediction. Despite the exponential upsurge in the number of articles citing or comparing Charlson, Elixhauser, and their variants, no systematic review has been conducted on studies comparing comorbidity measures in use with administrative data. We present a systematic review of these multiple comparison studies and introduce a new meta-analytical approach to identify the best performing comorbidity measures/indices for short-term (inpatient + ≤ 30 d) and long-term (outpatient+>30 d) mortality.

METHODS

Articles up to March 18, 2011 were searched based on our predefined terms. The bibliography of the chosen articles and the relevant reviews were also searched and reviewed. Multiple comparisons between comorbidity measures/indices were split into all possible pairs. We used the hypergeometric test and confidence intervals for proportions to identify the comparators with significantly superior/inferior performance for short-term and long-term mortality. In addition, useful information such as the influence of lookback periods was extracted and reported.

RESULTS

Out of 1312 retrieved articles, 54 articles were eligible. The Deyo variant of Charlson was the most commonly referred comparator followed by the Elixhauser measure. Compared with baseline variables such as age and sex, comorbidity adjustment methods seem to better predict long-term than short-term mortality and Elixhauser seems to be the best predictor for this outcome. For short-term mortality, however, recalibration giving empirical weights seems more important than the choice of comorbidity measure.

CONCLUSIONS

The performance of a given comorbidity measure depends on the patient group and outcome. In general, the Elixhauser index seems the best so far, particularly for mortality beyond 30 days, although several newer, more inclusive measures are promising.

Incidence and severity of acute complications after spinal cord injury

Object

The aim of this multicenter, prospective study was to determine the spectrum, incidence, and severity of complications during the initial hospitalization of patients with spinal cord injury.

Methods

The study was conducted at 9 university-affiliated hospitals that comprise the clinical centers of the North American Clinical Trials Network (NACTN) for Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury. The study population comprised 315 patients admitted to NACTN clinical centers between June 25, 2005, and November 2, 2010, who had American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale grades of A–D and were 18 years of age or older. Patients were managed according to a standardized protocol.

Results

The study population was 79% male with a median age of 44 years. The leading causes of injury were falls (37%) and motor vehicle accidents (28%). The distribution of initial ASIA grades were A (40%), B (16%), C (15%), and D (29%). Fifty-eight percent of patients sustained 1 or more severe, moderate, or mild complications. Complications were associated with more severe ASIA grade: 84% of patients with Grade A and 25% of patients with Grade D had at least 1 complication. Seventy-eight percent of complications occurred within 14 days of injury. The most frequent types of severe and moderate complications were respiratory failure, pneumonia, pleural effusion, anemia, cardiac dysrhythmia, and severe bradycardia. The mortality rate was 3.5% and was associated with increased age and preexisting morbidity.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the type, frequency, time of occurrence, and severity of specific complications that occur after spinal cord injury can aid in their early detection, treatment, and prevention. The data are of importance in evaluating and selecting therapy for clinical trials.

A quantitative analysis of clinical trial designs in spinal cord injury based on ICCP guidelines

Clinical studies of spinal cord injury (SCI) have evolved into multidisciplinary programs that investigate multiple types of neurological deficits and sequelae. In 2007, the International Campaign for Cures of SCI Paralysis (ICCP) proposed best practices for interventional trial designs, end-points, and inclusion criteria. Here we quantitatively assessed the extent to which SCI trials follow ICCP guidelines and reflect the overall patient population. We obtained data for all 288 SCI trials in ClinicalTrials.gov. We calculated summary statistics and observed trends pre-2007 versus 2007 onward. To compare the trial population to the overall SCI population, we obtained statistics from the National SCI Statistical Center. We generated tag clouds to describe heterogeneous trial outcomes. Most interventional studies were randomized (147, 73.1%), and utilized active (55, 36.7%) or placebo controls (49, 32.7%), both increasing trends (p=0.09). Most trials were open label (116, 53.5%), rather than double- (62, 28.6%) or single-blinded (39, 18.0%), but blinding has increased (p=0.01). Tag clouds of outcomes suggest an emphasis on assessment using scores and scales. Inclusion criteria related to American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) status and neurological level allowed inclusion of most SCI patients. Age inclusion criteria were most commonly 18-65 or older. Consistent with ICCP recommendations, most trials were randomized and controlled, and blinding has increased. Age inclusion criteria skew older than the overall population. ASIA status criteria reflect the population, but neurological lesion criteria could be broadened. Investigators should make trial designs and results available in a complete manner to enable comparisons of populations and outcomes.

Care of rats with complete high-thoracic spinal cord injury

The complications of spinal cord injury (SCI) increase in number and severity with the level of injury. A recent survey of SCI researchers reveals that animal models of high SCI are essential. Despite this consensus, most laboratories continue to work with mid- or low-thoracic SCI. The available data on cervical SCI in animals characterize incomplete injuries; for example, nearly all studies published in 2009 examine discrete, tract-specific lesions that are not clinically-relevant. A primary barrier to developing animal models of severe, higher SCI is the challenge of animal care, a critical determinant of experimental outcome. Currently, many of these practices vary substantially between laboratories, and are passed down anecdotally within institutions. The care of animals with SCI is complex, and becomes much more challenging as the lesion level ascends. In our experience, the care of animals with high-thoracic (T3) SCI is much more demanding than the care of animals with low-thoracic SCI, even though both injuries result in paraplegia. We have developed an animal care regimen for rats with complete high-thoracic SCI. Our practices have been refined over the past 7 years, in collaboration with animal care centre staff and veterinarians. During this time, we have cared for more than 300 rats with T3 complete transection SCI, with experimental end-points of up to 3 months. Here we provide details of our animal care procedures, including acclimatization, housing, diet, antibiotic prophylaxis, surgical procedures, post-operative monitoring, and prevention of complications. In our laboratory, this comprehensive approach consistently produces good outcomes following T3 complete transection SCI: using body weight as an objective indicator of animal health, we have found that our rats typically return to pre-operative weights within 10 days of T3 complete SCI. It is our hope that the information provided here will improve care of experimental animals, and facilitate adoption of models that directly address the complications associated with higher level injuries.

An evidence-based review of aging of the body systems following spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review evidence on aging of the body systems after spinal cord injury (SCI).

SETTING

Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

METHODS

Electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsycINFO), were searched for studies published between 1980 and 2009. The search was augmented by reviewing the reference lists of relevant papers. Non-intervention studies that were longitudinal or cross-sectional with able-bodied controls that were at minimum matched on chronological age were included for review. Levels of evidence were assigned to the study design using a modified Sackett scale.

RESULTS

Of the 74 studies selected for inclusion, 16 were longitudinal in design. The hypothesis that SCI represents a model for premature aging is supported by a large proportion of level 5 evidence for the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, level 2, 4 and 5 evidence for the musculoskeletal system, and limited level 5 evidence for the immune system. Only a few level 4 and 5 studies for the respiratory system were found. The evidence on the genitourinary system, gastrointestinal system, and for skin and subcutaneous tissues provide level 4 and 5 evidence that premature aging may not be occurring. The evidence on the nervous system does not provide evidence of premature aging as a result of SCI.

CONCLUSIONS

Premature aging appears to occur in some systems after SCI. Additional longitudinal studies are required to confirm these findings.

Late mortality during the first year after acute traumatic spinal cord injury: a prospective, population-based study

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the possible impact of the system of care on mortality during the first year after acute traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate late mortality (i.e., >7 days after trauma) during the first year after acute TSCI in 2 European Union (EU) regions, Thessaloniki in Greece and Stockholm in Sweden.

METHODS

This paper is part of the Stockholm Thessaloniki Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Study (STATSCIS), which is a prospective, population-based study. Incidence cohorts of TSCI cases were identified and followed up in both study regions through STATSCIS. Data from Thessaloniki region were collected through physical examination, medical records review, and interviews with TSCI individuals and the medical teams. Data from Stockholm were retrieved mainly from the Nordic Spinal Cord Injury Registry, as well as from direct contact with all intensive care facilities of the region.

RESULTS

The annual case mortality rate after acute TSCI was nearly 20% in Thessaloniki and 0% in Stockholm. The mean time of survival after trauma for the 12 mortality cases of Thessaloniki was 47 days (median = 24, SD +/- 67, range = 8-228). Factors associated with mortality were higher age and presence of comorbid spinal disorders but also the inefficient transfer logistics, initially missed spinal instability, and unsuccessfully treated complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The annual case mortality rate in Thessaloniki was dramatically higher than in Stockholm. The different approaches to care, one systematic and the other not, is postulated to be an important factor leading to such major discrepancies between the outcomes of these 2 EU regions.

The impact of age on mortality, impairment, and disability among adults with acute traumatic spinal cord injury

Given the potential effects of age on mortality, impairment, and disability among individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury [(SCI), we examined these issues using a large, prospectively accrued clinical database. This study includes all patients who were enrolled in the Third National Spinal Cord Injury Study (NASCIS 3). Motor, sensory, and pain outcomes were assessed using NASCIS scores. Functional outcome was evaluated using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Data analyses included regression models adjusted for major potential confounders (i.e., sex, ethnicity, Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] score, blood alcohol concentration on admission, drug protocol, cause, and level and severity of SCI). Mortality rates among older people (> or =65 years) were significantly greater than those of younger individuals at 6 weeks, at 6 months, and at 1 year following SCI (38.6% versus 3.1%; p < 0.0001). Among survivors, age was not significantly correlated with motor recovery or change in pain scores in the acute and chronic stages after SCI based on regression analyses adjusted for major confounders. However, older individuals experienced greater functional deficit (based on FIM scores) than younger individuals, despite experiencing similar rates of sensorimotor recovery (based on NASCIS scores). Our results suggest that older individuals have a substantially increased mortality rate during the first year following traumatic SCI in comparison with younger patients. Among survivors, the potential of older patients with SCI to neurologically improve within the first year post-injury does not appear to translate into similar functional recovery compared to that seen in younger individuals. Given this fact, rehabilitation protocols that are more focused on functional recovery may reduce disability among older people with acute traumatic SCI.