Patients with Spinal Cord Injuries Favor Administration of Methylprednisolone

PLoS ONE, 2016 · DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145991 · Published: January 20, 2016

Spinal Cord Injury Patient Experience Pharmacology

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the opinions of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients regarding the use of methylprednisolone (MPSS), a drug used to treat acute SCI. The use of MPSS has been controversial, and this study seeks to understand patients' perspectives on its administration. A summary of research on MPSS was created and reviewed by SCI experts to ensure it was unbiased. This summary, along with a survey, was then sent to 384 chronic SCI patients to gather their opinions on MPSS administration. The study found that the majority of SCI patients favor the administration of MPSS for acute SCI, even with its potential side effects. However, few patients reported having any input into whether or not they received MPSS.

Study Duration

Two-month time period in early 2015 for data collection

Participants

384 chronic SCI patients, 77 completed the survey

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The majority of SCI patients felt that small neurological benefits from MPSS were 'very important' to them.
2
Patients expressed 'little concern' for potential side-effects of MPSS.
3
Only a small percentage of patients felt that MPSS should not be given to SCI patients regardless of the degree of injury.

Research Summary

This study aimed to understand the opinions of SCI patients regarding MPSS treatment for acute SCI, given the controversy surrounding its use. A summary of MPSS literature was created and reviewed by experts to ensure neutrality before being shared with patients. The survey results indicated that the majority of SCI patients favor the administration of MPSS for acute SCI and are willing to accept potential side effects for even small neurological improvements. The study highlights a lack of shared decision-making between physicians and patients regarding MPSS treatment, suggesting that patients should have a greater opportunity to decide their treatment.

Practical Implications

Patient-Centered Care

Emphasize the importance of incorporating patient preferences into treatment decisions, especially when there is controversy among physicians.

Informed Consent

Improve communication between physicians and SCI patients to ensure informed consent regarding MPSS administration.

Selective Administration

Consider selective administration of MPSS based on patient characteristics and the potential risk-to-benefit ratio.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted at a single institution, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
2
Recall bias may have influenced the results.
3
The response rate was 20%, which is typical for electronic surveys but may introduce selection bias.

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