Correlation Between Neurologic Impairment Grade and Ambulation Status in the Adult Spina Bifida Population

Spina bifida is a birth defect that can cause disruptions in motor and sensory pathways, leading to neurologic impairments and mobility issues. This study examines the relationship between different scales used to measure these impairments and how they correlate with the ability to walk. The study compares four neurologic scales: ISNCSCI motor level, Broughton classification, and two versions of the NSBPR classification. It looks at how well these scales predict ambulation status (walking ability) in adults with spina bifida. The findings suggest that while the Broughton classification shows the strongest correlation with ambulation, the simpler NSBPR scale is also highly correlated and easier to use in clinical settings. This information can help doctors better assess and predict the mobility potential of adult spina bifida patients.

• 1
  The Broughton classification showed the strongest correlation with ambulation status (rs = −0.771, P < 0.001).
• 2
  High correlations were also noted with both versions of the National Spina Bifida Patient Registry (NSBPR): strength 3/5 or greater (rs = −0.763, P < 0.001) and strength 1/5 or greater (rs = −0.716, P < 0.001).
• 3
  The International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) motor level showed only a moderate correlation (rs = −0.565, P < 0.001).