The journal of spinal cord medicine
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Past evidence has shown that invasive and non-invasive brain stimulation may be effective for relieving central pain. ⋯ A number of studies have begun to use non-invasive neuromodulatory techniques therapeutically to relieve neuropathic pain and phantom phenomena in patients with SCI. However, further studies are warranted to corroborate the early findings and confirm different targets and stimulation paradigms. The utility of these protocols in combination with pharmacological approaches should also be explored.
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To review the available evidence on the effectiveness of intrathecal baclofen in the treatment of spasticity in individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) at least 6 months post-injury or diagnosis. ⋯ The literature search resulted in 677 articles. No RCTs and eight non-RCTs (D&B scores 13-24) met criteria for inclusion, providing a pooled sample size of 162 individuals. There was substantial level 4 evidence that intrathecal baclofen is effective in reducing spasticity. Mean Ashworth scores reduced from 3.1-4.5 at baseline to 1.0-2.0 (P < 0.005) at follow-up (range 2-41 months). Average dosing increased from 57-187 µg/day at baseline to 218.7-535.9 µg/day at follow-up. Several complications from the use of intrathecal baclofen or pump and catheter malfunction were reported.
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Context Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a life-threatening complication of chronic traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Objective To document and provide insight into the life-threatening sequelae associated with AD. Methods A review was conducted to identify literature which documented cases of AD associated with life-threatening outcomes (and death). ⋯ Conclusion AD is a well-known consequence of SCI among individuals with high thoracic and cervical injuries. Many of these individuals experience this condition on a daily basis. Medical personnel, care givers, and individuals with SCI should be aware of the importance of timely diagnosis and management of this life-threatening condition, which can result in a variety of significant complications including stroke, seizures, myocardial ischemia, and death.
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Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in subjects with long-term spinal cord injury (SCI). More specific recommendations for CVD prevention in this population are needed. ⋯ Subjects with post-traumatic chronic SCI and no overt cardiovascular risk factors, exhibit initial left ventricular remodeling (as assessed by TTE) compared with ABPs. Lifestyle modifications, including regular physical exercise and weight control, should be implemented in all subjects with SCI, even at a very early stage, in order to reduce cardiovascular risk and prevent the development of CVD.
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The Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Score (TLICS) was proposed to improve injury classification and guide surgical decision-making of thoracolumbar spinal trauma (TLST), but its impact on the care of patients has not been quantified. ⋯ After introduction of the TLICS, there was a trend towards more successful conservative treatment with fewer conversions to surgical treatment.