Spinal cord
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Spinal cord edema contributes to the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying spinal cord injury (SCI) and is associated with functional recovery after SCI. Early myelotomy may be a promising surgical intervention for reducing SCI-induced edema. However, it remains unclear whether myelotomy can reduce SCI-induced edema. In addition, aquaporin-4 (AQP4) and aquaporin-9 (AQP9) have important roles in the regulation of water homeostasis. Here, we aimed to determine the effects of myelotomy on AQP4 and AQP9 expression and spinal cord edema in a rat model of moderate SCI. ⋯ Myelotomy improves locomotor function, reduces edema in rats with SCI and is associated with decreased expression of AQP4 and AQP9.
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Online questionnaire survey. ⋯ We may still be far from an ideal classification system. Many experts continue to prefer or would consider shifting back to traditional and simpler systems. There is a need for developing classification systems that would be better implementable practically in day-to-day clinical practice, better guide treatment, be more reliable, incorporate other modifiers influencing treatment and be more comprehensive in that order of priority.
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Cross-sectional, controlled study. ⋯ Sciatic nerves seem to be smaller in subjects with SCI. Together with our electrophysiological data, this preliminary finding could possibly be attributed to primary axonal loss.
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Descriptive comparison analysis. ⋯ Majority of the facts related to SL, ML and AIS are included in the five training cases of ISCICDS. Thus, using these training cases, it is feasible to test the above facts within the ISNCSCI. It is suggested that the missing fact should be included in an update of the training cases.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
rTMS modulates reciprocal inhibition in patients with traumatic spinal cord injury.
Randomized, double-blind, crossover, sham-controlled trial. ⋯ In a small proof-of-concept study, rTMS strengthened descending projections between the motor cortex and inhibitory spinal interneuronal circuits. This reversed a defect in reciprocal inhibition after SCI, and reduced leg spasticity.