SECONDARY COMPLICATIONS AND ASSOCIATED INJURIES IN PATIENTS WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

Abstract

Objective: To assess the occurrence and risk factors for complications following spinal cord injury during inpatient rehabilitation.

Design: retrospective study.

Subjects: A total of 441 persons with a spinal cord injury admitted to specialized rehabilitation center.

Methods: Clinic for rehabilitation “Dr M. Zotovic”, Belgrade, Serbia, from January 2000 to December 2009.

Results: Complications during rehabilitation were reported in 368 (83.4%) patients. Complications during rehabilitation were experienced by 127 (78.4%) patients with non-traumatic SC I(NTSCI) and 241 (86.4%) patients with traumatic SCI (TSCI). The most common complications in both groups were urinary tract infections (47.5% in TSCI and 64.2% in NTSCI patients), spasticity (56.8% in NTSCI and 53.8% in TSCI patients) and decubital ulcers (9.9% in NTSCI and 17.6% in TSCI patients). Associated injuries were present in 110 (24.9%) patients and 331 (75.1%) patients were without them. The most common associated injuries were: head injuries (38.5%), followed by rib injuries (34.4%), injuries of upper and lower extremities (21.9%), injuries of internal organs (4, 4.2%) and pelvic injuries (1, 1%). Associated injuries were found only in traumatic group of patients. Overall, increased age, increased body mass index, traumatic lesion, tetraplegia, and complete lesion all increased the risk of complications.

Conclusion: Complications are common following spinal cord injury during rehabilitation. They need specific attention after discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.