Abdominal Ultrasonography Findings in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury in Korea

J Korean Med Sci, 2006 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2006

Spinal Cord Injury Medical Imaging Gastroenterology

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to various complications, including issues with internal organs. Detecting these issues early is difficult due to sensory loss. Abdominal ultrasonography is a non-invasive method to diagnose intraabdominal problems. This study analyzed ultrasound findings in SCI patients to identify factors associated with abnormalities. The study reviewed charts of 500 SCI patients who underwent abdominal ultrasound. The analysis considered factors like gender, age, injury duration, and injury severity to determine their effect on sonographic findings.

Study Duration

2000 to 2003

Participants

500 patients with SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Abnormal sonographic findings were observed in 45.2% of the 500 patients.
2
Liver abnormalities were observed in 19.6% of patients, with fatty liver being the most common finding.
3
Bladder abnormalities were noted in 17.6% of patients, including bladder wall thickening, cystitis, and bladder stones.

Research Summary

This retrospective study analyzed abdominal ultrasound results of 500 SCI patients to identify abdominal organ abnormalities. The study found a high incidence of abnormalities, including liver, bladder, kidney, and gallbladder issues, and identified factors associated with these findings. Abdominal sonography appears to be a useful tool for detecting hidden intraabdominal pathologies in SCI patients.

Practical Implications

Screening Tool

Abdominal ultrasonography can be used as a screening tool to detect intra-abdominal pathologies in patients with SCI.

Early Detection

Early detection of abnormalities can allow for prompt intervention and management.

Risk Factor Identification

Identifying risk factors associated with specific abnormalities can help in targeted screening and prevention efforts.

Study Limitations

1
Dependence on the operator’s ability
2
Difficult to examine patients with a marked spinal deformity, gross constipation or immobility
3
The present study did not use excretory urography, cystography and cystoscopy

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