Does lack of brain injury mean lack of cognitive impairment in traumatic spinal cord injury?

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2022 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2020.1847564 · Published: January 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Mental Health Neurology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates whether people with traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI), but without documented brain injury, experience cognitive problems. The researchers compared cognitive test results between individuals with tSCI and a control group, while also considering the influence of emotional factors like depression and distress. The findings suggest that some people with tSCI may have lower cognitive abilities, even without brain injury, and that emotional distress isn't the sole cause.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

20 participants with tSCI and 20 non-SCI controls

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

1
Participants with tSCI showed higher levels of depression and distress compared to non-SCI controls.
2
After controlling for emotional variables, the tSCI group scored lower on cognitive tests assessing executive functions, memory, and attention, but not naming abilities.
3
Executive functions showed the highest effect size, indicating a potentially greater impact on this cognitive domain in individuals with tSCI.

Research Summary

This study explored cognitive function in individuals with traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) who had no documented brain injury, while accounting for emotional variables. The results indicated that individuals with tSCI performed worse on cognitive tests related to executive functions, memory, and attention compared to non-SCI controls, even after controlling for emotional distress. The study suggests that cognitive impairments in tSCI may occur independently of brain injury and highlights the importance of cognitive evaluation and intervention in tSCI rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Cognitive Screening

Routine cognitive screening should be implemented for individuals with tSCI, even in the absence of documented TBI.

Targeted Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation programs should address potential cognitive deficits, particularly in executive functions, to improve outcomes for individuals with tSCI.

Psychoeducation

Educating family members and caregivers about the potential cognitive and emotional challenges associated with tSCI can improve support and care.