Prognosis of traumatic spinal cord injury in children: Follow-up of 86 patients

Chinese Journal of Traumatology, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cjtee.2022.05.001 · Published: January 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study looks at the long-term effects of spinal cord injuries (SCI) on children, aiming to provide insights that can help them better integrate back into society. The research involved analyzing data from 86 children under 18 years old who were hospitalized with SCI between January 2011 and December 2020. The study found that SCIs can significantly affect children's physical abilities, independence in daily activities, school attendance, and social interactions.

Study Duration

3 to 130 months

Participants

86 children with traumatic SCIWORA (77 girls, 9 boys)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Sports injuries were the primary cause of trauma (66.3%), with the thoracic spinal cord being the most frequently affected area (91.9%), and complete SCIs were predominant (76.7%).
2
Children with complete SCIs were more prone to urinary incontinence, constipation, and personality changes, while those with incomplete SCIs often experienced spasticity.
3
A majority of children with incomplete injuries (93.8%) were able to walk independently, whereas wheelchair use was prevalent among 84.9% of the participants.

Research Summary

The study investigated the long-term situation of children with spinal cord injury (SCI) to provide suggestions for better social reintegration. Data from 86 SCI patients under 18 years old were analyzed, focusing on motor function, complications, self-care abilities, school attendance, and social participation. The findings highlight the significant impact of SCIs on children's physical health, independence, and social lives, emphasizing the need for comprehensive rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs

Medical staff and caregivers should focus on both neurological function and improving self-care abilities through comprehensive rehabilitation programs.

Balancing Rehabilitation and Social Life

It's important to balance rehabilitation training with school work and social activities to ensure holistic development and prevent social isolation.

Targeted Interventions

Given the high incidence of sports-related injuries, targeted interventions and preventive measures are needed to reduce the occurrence of SCIWORA in children participating in sports and dancing.

Study Limitations

1
Difficulty in quantitatively analyzing data obtained via telephone interviews and questionnaires.
2
Challenges in conducting detailed evaluations due to participants returning to their local areas for treatment.
3
Potential for bias in caregiver responses due to the questionnaire's reliance on subjective lay answers.

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