Predictors of respiratory complications in patients with C5–T5 spinal cord injuries

Spinal Cord, 2020 · DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0506-7 · Published: June 24, 2020

Simple Explanation

This study looks at respiratory issues in people with spinal cord injuries in the neck and upper back (C5-T5). It aims to find out how common these problems are and what increases the risk. The study found that having a history of respiratory disease, complete motor function impairment, and chest trauma at the same time as the spinal injury significantly increased the likelihood of respiratory complications. Identifying these risk factors can help doctors take steps to prevent or better manage breathing problems in these patients.

Study Duration

2010-2015

Participants

174 patients with acute traumatic spinal cord injuries at C5–T5 level

Evidence Level

Retrospective chart audit

Key Findings

1
Respiratory complications are common in patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries between C5 and T5.
2
Previous respiratory disease, complete motor function impairment (AIS A–B), and coexistent thoracic trauma are predictors of respiratory complications.
3
Patients with respiratory complications had significantly longer hospital stays.

Research Summary

This retrospective study of 174 patients with C5-T5 spinal cord injuries found a high prevalence of respiratory complications during initial hospitalization. The strongest predictors of respiratory complications were previous respiratory disease, complete motor function impairment, and concurrent chest trauma. The study suggests that identifying at-risk patients can help clinicians implement preventive strategies to reduce these complications.

Practical Implications

Risk Stratification

Clinicians can use the identified predictors (previous respiratory disease, complete motor impairment, thoracic trauma) to identify patients at high risk of respiratory complications early in their hospitalization.

Preventive Strategies

Early identification of high-risk patients allows for the implementation of preventive strategies such as intensive physiotherapy, assisted coughing techniques, mucolytics, and bronchodilators.

Resource Allocation

Hospitals can allocate resources more efficiently by focusing on preventive measures for patients with these risk factors, potentially reducing hospital stay and improving patient outcomes.

Study Limitations

1
Retrospective nature of the study
2
Lack of precise data on the use of assisted coughing or other physiotherapy techniques
3
Absence of lung function data and breathing during sleep information

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