Citation

Chakka K, Clark A, Kowalske K. J. Burn Care Res. 2022; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, American Burn Association, Publisher Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1093/jbcr/irac115

PMID

36001001

Abstract

Delayed spinal cord injury (SCI) is a relatively rare consequence of high voltage electrical burns, but it holds significant implications for patient quality of life. Due to the uncommon nature of delayed SCI and variable time of onset following injury, providers are currently unable to provide a prognosis for functional recovery and optimize a therapy process tailored to treat this patient populace. In this study, we aim to better map the pattern of recovery in these patients to better inform future rehabilitation practices. A retrospective chart review of 5 patients who experienced delayed spinal cord injury secondary to an electrical burn was conducted. The majority of patients displayed an upward trajectory in motor function following acute hospitalization and inpatient rehabilitation, with 4 of the 5 patients able to achieve complete motor strength in multiple extremities. Additionally, rehabilitation was shown to have a noticeable impact in improving functional independence in tasks related to nursing. In conclusion, the clinical and functional outcomes of these delayed SCI patients point to the need for multidisciplinary management following injury and highlight the importance of early rehabilitation in regaining function.

Language: en

Keywords

delayed spinal cord injury; Electric burns; multidisciplinary burn care