Interdisciplinary rehabilitation for a patient with incomplete cervical spinal cord injury and multimorbidity: A case report

Medicine, 2017 · DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000007837 · Published: August 1, 2017

Spinal Cord Injury Healthcare Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This case report describes the rehabilitation of a 51-year-old male with an incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) and multiple health issues following a car accident. The patient faced challenges like muscle weakness, breathing and swallowing difficulties, bowel and bladder control problems, and blood pressure issues when standing up. An interdisciplinary team, including doctors, therapists, and nurses, coordinated care to help the patient regain independence and manage his conditions.

Study Duration

11 Months

Participants

1 Male patient

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
The patient progressed from needing a mechanical lift to transfer to being largely independent in transferring from bed to wheelchair and upper body dressing.
2
Orthostatic hypotension and bilateral shoulder pain symptoms were also resolved.
3
The patient was able to walk up to 150 feet with a 2-wheeled walker with verbal cues and occasional stabilizing assistance.

Research Summary

This case report highlights the rehabilitation of a patient with incomplete SCI and multiple comorbidities through interdisciplinary care. The patient's progress included resolution of dysphagia and orthostatic hypotension, improved independence in transfers and dressing, and ability to ambulate with assistance. The interdisciplinary team approach, involving multiple specialties, played a crucial role in supporting the patient's rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Highlights the importance of coordinated care among multiple specialties for complex SCI cases.

Individualized Rehabilitation

Emphasizes the need to tailor rehabilitation plans to address specific patient needs and comorbidities.

Functional Improvement

Demonstrates that significant functional improvements are possible even in patients with severe SCI and multiple health issues.

Study Limitations

1
Single case study
2
Details describing the clinical rationale for the second fusion surgery and symptom onset relative to PEG placement were unavailable.
3
Generalizability of results

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