Current insights into the management of spinal cord injury

Abstract

BackgroundTraumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious disorder that results in severe impairment of neurological function as well as disability, ultimately reducing a patient's quality of life. The pathophysiology of SCI involves a primary and secondary phase, which causes neurological injury. MethodsNarrative review on current clinical management of spinal cord injury and emerging therapies. ResultsThis review explores the management of SCI through early decompressive surgery, optimizing mean arterial pressure, steroid therapy and focused rehabilitation. These management strategies reduce secondary injury mechanisms to prevent the propagation of further neurological damage. The literature regarding emerging research is also explored in cell-based, gene, pharmacological and neuromodulation therapies, which aim to repair the spinal cord following the primary injury mechanism. ConclusionsOutcomes for patients with SCI can be enhanced and improved if primary and secondary phases of SCI can be addressed.