Characteristics of Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury in South Korea: A Single-Centered Study

Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.5535/arm.22062 · Published: October 31, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Pediatrics Public Health

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in children are particularly challenging due to their impact on ongoing physical and emotional development. This study examines the characteristics of pediatric SCIs in South Korea from 1990 to 2019. The study reviewed data from 267 pediatric individuals with SCIs, dividing them into age groups to analyze the causes and severity of injuries, distinguishing between traumatic (TSCIs) and non-traumatic (NTSCIs) SCIs. The findings revealed that traumatic SCIs are more common, particularly in males aged 15-19, with motorcycle accidents being a significant cause. Non-traumatic SCIs often result in paraplegia and incomplete injuries, with inflammatory and neoplastic etiologies being prevalent.

Study Duration

1990 to 2019

Participants

267 pediatric individuals with spinal cord injuries

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Traumatic SCIs were more frequent, especially in males aged 15–19 years.
2
The most common causes of traumatic SCIs were land transport accidents (especially motorcycle accidents), falls, and sports-related injuries.
3
Non-traumatic SCIs commonly resulted in paraplegia and incomplete injury, with inflammatory and neoplastic causes being the most prevalent.

Research Summary

This study investigates the characteristics of pediatric spinal cord injuries (PedSCI) in South Korea between 1990 and 2019, identifying key differences between traumatic (TSCI) and non-traumatic (NTSCI) injuries. The research reveals a high incidence of TSCIs, particularly among males aged 15–19 years, with land transport accidents being the primary cause. Motorcycle accidents are a significant contributor within this category. NTSCIs tend to result in paraplegia and incomplete injuries, with inflammatory and neoplastic conditions being the most common underlying causes. The study highlights the importance of tailored prevention strategies and therapeutic approaches based on age and cause of injury.

Practical Implications

Targeted Prevention Programs

Implement prevention programs focused on reducing motorcycle accidents among males aged 15-19.

Mental Health Support

Provide mental health support and suicide prevention measures, especially for females, to address falls related to suicide attempts.

Public Safety Measures

Enhance safety measures around small outdoor pools and ravines to prevent diving-related quadriplegia.

Study Limitations

1
Single-centered study limits generalizability to all PedSCI cases in South Korea.
2
Exclusion of individuals requiring intensive care or those who expired in the acute phase.
3
Inability to definitively determine whether traumatic SCIs were caused by accidents or suicide attempts.

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