Research from the Model Spinal Cord Injury Systems: findings from the current 5-year grant cycle

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Spinal Cord Injury Research
• Disability Studies

Background:

• The Model Spinal Cord Injury Systems (MSCIS) program, established in the 1970s, has supported spinal cord injury (SCI) research and care.
• Administered by the US Department of Education, MSCIS has involved 27 centers and currently includes 16 regional centers.
• The program contributes data to the National Spinal Cord Injury Database, containing records for over 30,500 individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present current research findings from the Model Spinal Cord Injury Systems (MSCIS) program.
• To provide a historical overview of the MSCIS program and its contributions.
• To disseminate key findings from 17 original research articles featured in this special issue.

Main Methods:

• This issue compiles research from the ongoing 5-year grant cycle (2000-2005) of the MSCIS program.
• Includes data from site-specific and collaborative research projects funded by MSCIS grants.
• Features 17 original research articles showcasing advancements in spinal cord injury care and research.

Main Results:

• Highlights significant findings from diverse SCI research projects.
• Demonstrates the long-term impact of the MSCIS program on SCI patient data collection and analysis.
• Showcases advancements in comprehensive systems of care for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Conclusions:

• The MSCIS program continues to be a vital initiative for advancing spinal cord injury research and rehabilitation.
• This special issue serves as a key dissemination effort, summarizing critical research outcomes.
• The collective data and research findings contribute to improved understanding and management of spinal cord injuries.