Medical complications and economic aspects of management of permanent spinal cord disease

Managing spinal cord injuries requires a dedicated, long-term team including physicians, therapists, and social workers to address acute needs and provide ongoing care. Preventing complications like muscle spasms, pain, bladder dysfunction, and pressure sores is crucial, requiring regular medical supervision to avoid advanced stages. Psychological support for patients and their families is vital for adapting to new roles and should be consistently available during and after rehabilitation.

• 1
  Spasticity management involves surgical procedures, but caution is advised as it may convert spastic muscles to flaccid ones, potentially worsening the neurologic deficit.
• 2
  Intermittent nonsterile self-catheterization challenges the traditional view that urethral catheterization encourages urinary tract infection, offering a potential alternative for bladder management.
• 3
  Economic analysis reveals substantial direct and indirect costs associated with spinal cord injuries, highlighting the need for efficient resource allocation and support systems.