Evaluation of Clinical Characteristics and Comorbid Conditions in Pediatric Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Patients

Cureus, 2023 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44512 · Published: September 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study looks at the characteristics and common health problems of children and teenagers who have suffered a spinal cord injury due to trauma. The study included 147 patients who were treated at a rehabilitation center between 2009 and 2017. The study found that most patients were male, around 13 years old when injured, and the most common cause of injury was falling from a height. The most common health problems after the injury were bladder problems, muscle stiffness, and nerve pain. The researchers suggest that it is important to prevent these types of injuries in children, treat any health problems that arise early on, and provide regular follow-up care.

Study Duration

2009-2017

Participants

147 pediatric traumatic SCI patients (age of injury 17 and under)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The most common etiological reason was falls from height (34.7%), and the most common level of injury was the thoracic region (49%).
2
The most common comorbid conditions after SCI were found to be neurogenic bladder (91.2%), spasticity (41.54%), and neuropathic pain (29.3%).
3
In Group 1 (0-10 years), the median disease duration was longer, and the rate of thoracic region injury and complete injury was higher (p<0.05); in Group 2 (11-17 years), the rate of having stabilization operation after the injury was significantly higher (p<0.001).

Research Summary

This study examined the demographic and clinical features of 147 pediatric patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCI) who underwent inpatient rehabilitation between 2009 and 2017. The study found that falls from height were the most common cause of injury, the thoracic region was the most common injury site, and neurogenic bladder was the most common comorbidity. The authors conclude that preventing etiological factors, early treatment of comorbidities, protective measures, and regular follow-up are crucial for managing pediatric traumatic SCI patients.

Practical Implications

Preventive Measures

Emphasize family education and social awareness to reduce preventable injuries, especially falls from height and diving-related cervical injuries.

Early Intervention

Implement early treatment protocols for common comorbidities like neurogenic bladder, spasticity, neuropathic pain, pressure ulcers, and urinary tract infections.

Long-Term Monitoring

Provide long-term follow-up for patients to monitor for secondary pathologies such as scoliosis and neurogenic bowel, ensuring continuous management and support.

Study Limitations

1
Retrospective design
2
Comorbid conditions reported reflect those seen in post-acute and rehabilitation service, rather than acute comorbid conditions
3
Inability to access data from evaluations such as Barthel Index-Functional Independence Measure, Short Form-36, and Nottingham Health Profile

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