Spinal Cord Injury—Past, Present, and Future

J Spinal Cord Med, 2007 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2007

Spinal Cord Injury Healthcare Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This report reviews the history of spinal cord injury (SCI) care, from ancient times to current clinical trials and basic research. The experiences of historical figures like Lord Admiral Sir Horatio Nelson, President James A. Garfield, and General George Patton are used to illustrate the evolution of SCI care. The author highlights the contributions of professionals and organizations that have advanced SCI care through surgery, anesthesia, trauma care, imaging, pharmacology, and infection control.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Level 5, Special Report

Key Findings

1
Historically, SCI was considered an untreatable ailment with a defeatist attitude prevailing among healthcare professionals until the 20th century.
2
Landmark discoveries in microbiology, anesthesia, hematology, and imaging have significantly improved the survival and treatment options for individuals with SCI.
3
The development of comprehensive SCI care models and the contributions of key figures like Donald Munro, Ludwig Guttmann, and John Young have greatly improved the lives of individuals with SCI.

Research Summary

This special report traces the path of spinal cord injury (SCI) from ancient times through the present and provides an optimistic overview of promising clinical trials and avenues of basic research. The spinal cord injuries of Lord Admiral Sir Horatio Nelson, President James A. Garfield, and General George Patton provide an interesting perspective on the evolution of the standard of care for SCI. The author details the contributions of a wide spectrum of professionals in the United States, Europe, and Australia, as well as the roles of various government and professional organizations, legislation, and overall advances in surgery, anesthesia, trauma care, imaging, pharmacology, and infection control, in the advancement of care for the individual with SCI.

Practical Implications

Improved Medical Care

Advancements in spinal stability techniques, imaging, neurogenic bladder management, sexuality, pain management, and spasticity treatment have significantly enhanced the quality of life for SCI patients.

Enhanced Rehabilitation Services

Technological improvements in power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, orthotic devices, computer interfaces, and pressure mapping have promoted mobility, self-care, and independence for individuals with SCI.

Future Research Directions

Ongoing clinical trials and animal laboratory investigations are exploring various strategies to reduce the effects of damage, encourage neuron function, enhance regeneration, replace lost nerve cells, inhibit scar formation, and reduce neurocircuit deficits.

Study Limitations

1
The review focuses primarily on historical cases and advancements, providing limited detail on current clinical protocols.
2
The article acknowledges the lack of a definitive cure for SCI, highlighting the ongoing challenges in spinal cord regeneration.
3
The review may not comprehensively cover all organizations and individuals who have contributed to SCI research and care.

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