Abstract
Objectives: Cervical spinal cord injury (CSCI) is a devastating consequence of trauma that results in disabling loss of upper-limb function. Functional reconstruction through surgical intervention can improve quality of life, reduce long-term care needs, and is highly rated by patients. Internationally, limited information exists on the number of patients eligible for surgical intervention, procedures undertaken, and provision of services. Our objective was to answer these questions to inform service developments in the United Kingdom (UK) and abroad. Methods: A postal questionnaire survey was distributed to the clinical leads of each of the 12 UK and Republic of Ireland spinal cord injury centres (SCICs). Information was requested on the local CSCI caseload, referral of CSCI patients to reconstructive upper-limb services, and surgical procedures undertaken locally during defined periods. Nonresponders were followed up with freedom of information requests. Results: Eleven SCICs responded (response rate: 92%) with a mean of 49.6 any-level CSCI patients admitted annually (>C5: 27.9 patients, C5/6: 18 patients,
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