Recombinant Acidic Fibroblast Growth Factor Facilitates Motor Recovery and Reduces Myelomalacia in Traumatic American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A Spinal Cord Injured Patients

Neurotrauma Reports, 2024 · DOI: 10.1089/neur.2024.0063 · Published: January 1, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the effectiveness of acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) in treating spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. aFGF is a neurotrophic factor known for preserving neuronal survival. Twelve tetraplegic patients with complete SCI (AIS Grade A) were divided into two groups: one receiving aFGF and the other a placebo. The first dose was administered during surgery, followed by two more doses via lumbar puncture. The study found that aFGF may help speed up motor recovery in SCI patients and reduce the occurrence of myelomalacia, a complication following SCIs.

Study Duration

48 weeks

Participants

12 tetraplegic patients with American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) Grade A SCI

Evidence Level

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Key Findings

1
aFGF treatment significantly increased the probability of a 10-point improvement in motor score compared to the placebo group.
2
aFGF treatment exhibited a significant reduction in the incidence or exacerbation rate of myelomalacia.
3
Patients treated with aFGF showed a larger increment in group ratio to baseline motor score than the placebo group.

Research Summary

The study evaluated aFGF's potential benefits for SCI patients, focusing on motor recovery and myelomalacia reduction. Results indicated aFGF could expedite motor recovery in complete SCI patients and significantly increase the probability of a 10-point improvement compared to placebo. The study also found a significant reduction in myelomalacia incidence or exacerbation with aFGF treatment.

Practical Implications

Clinical application

aFGF shows promise as a potential pharmacological intervention for improving motor recovery in patients with complete SCI.

Further Research

Further research is warranted to confirm these findings, optimize treatment regimens, and explore the relationship between myelomalacia and motor recovery.

Preventative measure

aFGF may prevent sub-acute progressive myelopathy after SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Limited patient number
2
Exploratory nature of the study
3
Complexity of motor function recovery

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