Epidemiology of spinal cord injury and spinal cord injury–induced urinary tract stones in Taiwan: A 2005–2015 population-based cohort study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2025 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2023.2293326 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Urology Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study examines the occurrence of spinal cord injuries (SCI) and urinary tract stones (UTS) in SCI patients in Taiwan between 2005 and 2015. It uses data from the National Health Insurance Research Database to understand the trends and risk factors associated with these conditions. The research aims to provide up-to-date information on SCI and UTS incidence, considering factors like injury severity, neurological deficits, and the location of the spinal cord injury. By analyzing this data, the study hopes to identify key factors that contribute to the development of UTS in SCI patients, which can help in developing better prevention and management strategies.

Study Duration

11 Years

Participants

13,977 patients with SCI aged >18 years

Evidence Level

Retrospective cohort study

Key Findings

1
The average annual incidence of SCI in Taiwan was 60.4 per million, with men having a higher incidence than women.
2
Over the 11-year study period, 10.4% of SCI patients developed urinary tract stones, with UTS risk being higher in men.
3
Risk factors for UTS in SCI patients include age (45–65 years), injuries at multiple spinal sites, and neurological deficits such as paraplegia.

Research Summary

This study investigated the epidemiology of spinal cord injury (SCI) and SCI-induced urinary tract stones (UTSs) in Taiwan from 2005 to 2015 using a population-based cohort study design. The results showed that while SCI incidence is decreasing annually, the average annual incidence remains at 60.4 per million, with the majority of patients being male and the most common injury site being the cervical spine. The study identified that age, sex, injury site, and paraplegia influence the risk of UTS among patients with SCI, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to reduce SCI incidence and improve urinary tract management.

Practical Implications

Preventative Strategies

Targeted interventions focused on high-risk groups (men, individuals aged 45-65, and those with cervical injuries) can reduce SCI incidence.

Improved Management

Enhance urinary tract management protocols for SCI patients, particularly those with paraplegia, to mitigate UTS development.

Public Health Planning

Allocate healthcare resources effectively based on the identified epidemiological trends and risk factors to address the needs of SCI patients in Taiwan.

Study Limitations

1
The study used secondary data, which may have inherent uncertainties.
2
The absence of a specific SCI measurement tool in the NHIRD made it difficult to estimate the impact of SCI on neurological function.
3
All participants had undergone catheterization, preventing observation of the effects of different bladder management techniques on UTS formation.

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