Spinal cord injury: pathophysiology and principles of management

Abstract

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a catastrophic neurological condition resulting in increased physical dependency, medical comorbidity, psychological distress and economic burden. New SCI affects 250,000–500,000 individuals globally each year. The pathophysiological mechanisms following SCI are incompletely understood, and the management of patients following SCI is challenging. Understanding the evolution of pathophysiological changes following SCI is fundamental to delivering and developing appropriate management strategies. Timely interventions following acute SCI can prevent secondary neurological deterioration and improve potential for neurological recovery. A bespoke, multidisciplinary and holistic approach to the management and rehabilitation of SCI patients can optimize physical and mental wellbeing and maximize patient's neurological recovery and functional capabilities. Current therapeutic options following SCI are limited and do not overcome the debilitating effects of SCI. Current knowledge of the pathophysiological mechanism following SCI, management strategies and novel therapies for adult and paediatric SCI patients are reviewed.