Effects of restoration of cough via spinal cord stimulation on subject quality of life

Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcot.2022.102027 · Published: September 27, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Participation Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The study investigates how a cough stimulation system (Cough System) impacts the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). These individuals often have difficulty coughing, which can lead to respiratory issues. Participants used the Cough System, which involves lower thoracic spinal cord stimulation (SCS), and researchers assessed their quality of life at different time points using questionnaires. The results showed that using the Cough System improved the participants' ability to cough and manage airway secretions, leading to a better quality of life.

Study Duration

52 weeks

Participants

28 subjects with spinal cord injury (SCI)

Evidence Level

Prospective assessment

Key Findings

1
The use of the Cough System resulted in significant clinical improvements in terms of restoring an effective cough and the ability to manage airway secretions.
2
Participants experienced less interference with family life and daily activities, reduced financial difficulties, decreased need for caregiver assistance, less stress and embarrassment, and greater control over breathing problems.
3
The incidence of acute respiratory tract infections significantly decreased after using the Cough System.

Research Summary

This study evaluated the impact of a cough stimulation system (Cough System) on the quality of life of 28 individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The participants completed questionnaires at baseline and at 28, 40, and 52 weeks after using the Cough System. The results indicated that the Cough System significantly improved the participants' ability to cough and manage airway secretions, leading to positive changes in various aspects of their lives, including family life, daily activities, and overall health. The study concludes that the Cough System is a safe and effective method for improving the quality of life for SCI subjects, with the potential to reduce mortality and morbidity associated with SCI.

Practical Implications

Improved Respiratory Management

The Cough System offers a method to restore effective cough in SCI patients, reducing respiratory complications.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Restoration of cough function leads to improvements in various aspects of daily life, including reduced stress and financial difficulties.

Reduced Healthcare Burden

The decrease in respiratory tract infections suggests a potential reduction in hospitalizations and healthcare costs.

Study Limitations

1
The questionnaire utilized to evaluate life quality in this study is not a validated instrument.
2
The total number is still relatively small and limited to a single study site.
3
there are no generally accepted quality of life assessments speciﬁc for the spinal cord population

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